Van Barneveld supported by Taylor throughout darting resurgence: "It's not that he does it all the time but he loves it when I'm playing well"

On December 20th Raymond van Barneveld will be playing his opening game at the World Championships and will be facing either Lisa Ashton or Ryan Meikle in his first match.

After a successful Grand Slam of Darts Van Barneveld is in fine form for his trip to Alexandra Palace. This week the Dutchman has been speaking to 'Daily Star Sport' about the chance of a potential third round match up against Gerwyn Price.

“I’d love to play Gerwyn on the stage but if I lose, which I don’t expect to happen, I’d be losing to the World No.1 which isn’t a shame.”

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As well as the 55 year old played at the Grand Slam he says he still feels no pressure at all going into the competition.

“For me there is no pressure, I am over the moon I did well at the Grand Slam of Darts. I showed the world I am still able to do this, I beat Gerwyn in the group 5-4 which was really tight as both parties missed the doubles. To beat him in the best of 31 legs that is something different."

"I also kept up with Michael Smith as well, I missed three darts at double 16 to make it 13-13 if I had of hit that it would’ve been a game again – I am showing I can beat anyone at the moment so I don’t fear anyone.”

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As well as his good form, words of encouragement from a certain Phil Taylor may help spur him on. Barneveld admitted that the former world No.1 sends him messages of praise.

“I saw him at an exhibition last week and he said he’d keep sending me these things. It was completely out of the blue but I really enjoyed it,”

“It’s not that he does it all the time but he loves it when I’m playing well. I’ve got a fan, a supporter, so brilliant! It’s because of the bond we have, we played so many games with each other. I would maybe be the same if Phil was back on stage."