"I've been struggling a little bit recently, but I've been battling": Michael van Gerwen resolute on Rotterdam resurgence

Michael van Gerwen hopes to revive his season Thursday night when the Premier League Darts descends on Rotterdam. The 11th round of play is scheduled in a sold-out Rotterdam Ahoy and the Dutch dart player is eagerly looking forward to playing in front of his own crowd.

The seven-time Premier League champion is currently just outside the virtual top four, which at the end of the season entitles him to participate in the playoffs. In the first 10 weeks of play, Van Gerwen made it to the final of an evening only once, which is unusual for the most successful player in the history of the league.

Still, there are bright spots. No player has won more quarterfinals this season than Van Gerwen, which shows that he is still regularly showing his class. Thursday night he opens his hunt for success at home against Stephen Bunting.

Bunting recently booked his first ever weekly title in the Premier League, during the ninth round of play in Berlin. Nevertheless, he will reflect back on his last encounter with Van Gerwen with mixed feelings. On the second night, he was defeated 6-1, with the Dutchman posting an average of 109.

Van Gerwen knows the time has come to peak. "This is always the week where you want to perform and do well," he said.

"Playing on home soil in front of your family and friends, you always want to produce something extra. It's really enjoyable and it gives me more energy, which I think is really important.

Although the season has been shaky so far, Van Gerwen remains positive. "I've been struggling a little bit recently, but I've been battling and picking up points here and there, and I know there is plenty more in the tank.

"This is a difficult format, especially when you're not performing at your best, but I need to make sure I do the right thing for myself, and hopefully I can get my first nightly win [of the season] here in Rotterdam."