"Last year was double-heartbreak..": Leeds United fan Luke Humphries hopes promotion leads to Premier League Darts success this time

Luke Humphries hopes to complete a perfect sports week for his beloved city of Leeds on Thursday night by qualifying for the Premier League Darts playoffs. At the First Direct Arena, the world champion will take on none other than Michael van Gerwen in the quarterfinals.

The world number one is counting on a repeat of last year, when he took the weekly title in Leeds after a win over Van Gerwen. Another win over the Dutchman and then winning the evening would immediately secure his qualification for the final match at the O2 Arena.

“Winning in Leeds last year was a great feeling, and it's something I would love to repeat again,” insisted Humphries.

“It's been a great few weeks for the city of Leeds, and I would love to be the one to top it off."

Humphries is eagerly looking forward to the atmosphere in the sold-out arena. "It should be an amazing atmosphere. I'm really up for it, and I want to make sure I'm the best version of myself.

"Michael needs to win games to get himself to The O2, so he won't want to create any unnecessary drama for himself, but I'm here to win.”

The 30-year-old has a special bond with the city of Leeds. Not only did he win the Premier League Darts there last year, he is also an avid supporter of Leeds United. Last season, he and the club experienced a double drama: he himself lost the Premier League final, while Leeds missed out on promotion to the Premier League after a defeat against Southampton.

This year, the roles seem to be reversed. Leeds United secured promotion to the Premier League last weekend, and Humphries now hopes to follow with a title in the darts variety.

“It would be a great double,” he added. "Last year was double-heartbreak - I lost in the Premier League final and Leeds lost the Play-Off final."

“Hopefully it’s my turn to double-up, with Leeds going up to the Premier League and me winning the Premier League. That would be nice!”

Although Humphries has already reached the final of a Premier League night six times, his last evening victory dates from Night 4 in Exeter. Still, he is in top form: his averages of 118.43 against Stephen Bunting in Manchester and 113 against Nathan Aspinall in Rotterdam speak volumes.

“In last year’s Premier League my first games were my weakest, and my second and third games were my best,” reflected the world number one. "This year my first game seems to be where I’m at my best. I’ve had countless ton-plus averages in my opening game, which stands me in good stead for this week.

“Hopefully I can start well and then what I need to do is capitalise on it by performing at a consistent level, because that is what will win you the night.”