VAN GERWEN: I’M HUMAN.. NOT A ROBOT

Faldo: Ryder Cup is too close to call

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN faced up to his worst run as world No.1 and insisted: I haven’t become a bad player overnight.

Van Gerwen, 29, puts his form to the test before millions of BBC viewers this weekend at the Paddy Power Champions League of Darts in Brighton.

MVG was eliminated twice in the first round of tournaments in the summer – including a shock defeat by fellow Dutchman Jeffrey de Zwaan at the World Matchplay.

The two-time world champion faces Dave Chisnall today in his opening group match and said: “I’ve always said I’m human, not a robot.

“Maybe my results in the last few months have reflected that.

“Winning tournaments does not come easy, but form is temporary – and I know you do not lose your ability in a short time.

“There are only 11 weeks to go before the world championship, and this would be a good place to build some momentum.”

Serbian Mensur Suljovic begins his defence of the title against world champion Rob Cross.

TIGHT CALL Sir Nick Faldo says the Ryder Cup could end level, just like his European team did in 1989 (below) FOCUSED Van Gerwen is aiming to get back on track