Michael Smith wants to keep playoffs chances alive: ''It's in my own hands now''

Perhaps the most interesting clash of the upcoming round of Premier League Darts play is the meeting between Michael Smith and Nathan Aspinall in Leeds.

Both players along with Michael van Gerwen, are in a fierce battle for the final two starting spots for the Premier League Darts playoffs. Luke Littler and Luke Humphries currently have already secured a spot on the final night.

Last Monday, Smith at least managed to fuel some confidence by winning the ninth Players Championship tournament of the season in Hildesheim. For the 33-year-old, it was his first title in almost a year.

"It's in my own hands now," declared Smith. "I finally got my name back in that winner's circle again in Germany and I was over the moon, because it's been hard.

"I'm only two points behind Michael [van Gerwen] and three behind Nathan [Aspinall], and I'm feeling good. There are some signs that my form is coming back.

"I've got Nathan this week, and then potentially Michael or Nathan next week, so it's in my own hands. If I can win my first match and make the final on both nights, it's down to them."