Van Gerwen on debate surrounding Premier League picks: "There's only two people that can really moan"

Michael van Gerwen will begin the defense of his Premier League Darts title tonight in Belfast on Night One with a tie against Michael Smith. Speaking at the media day pre tournament, he discussed the picks, format and also his tie against Smith.

"The Premier League starts to get longer and longer feeling wise. But overall, it's a lovely tournament to play in, of course playing on the highest level against top dart players week in week out," said Van Gerwen to Online Darts.

"I prefer the old one (format) to be fair. I think most of the players did but I think as a fan and for the people at home, they can see a winner on the night and makes it easier to watch."

On the picks, he said only two players can have a grievance that they are left out but that it is not up to him to decide.

"I understand everyone's situation but I think there's only two people that can really moan. I think Luke (Humphries) and Noppert, if you look ranking wise and what they did in the year. That for me is the first two picks but everyone you can debate, it's not up to me. It's up to the PDC."

Chris Dobey was included after winning the Masters but Van Gerwen believes too much importance has been placed on a tournament that the players don't hold in high regard.

"They have made the Masters a little bit too important now for all the players it's the smallest tournament after the World Series Finals of the year and now they make it the qualification towards the Premier League."

"That happened the two years before with Joe and Jonny, it went out well for them because it was perfect for them. Now it created a big problem for them."

After defeat in the World final to Smith, the onus will be on revenge and it is a match he is looking forward to.

"Me and Michael always have great battles, it's a nice pace to watch the way we play. Both quick, high scoring power and whenever you play, you never want to lose anyway."