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Michael van Gerwen expecting incredible atmosphere at Rotterdam Ahoy

Michael van Gerwen takes on Phil Taylor in match of the night in Rotterdam

Michael van Gerwen v Cristo Reyes at the World Darts Championship
Image: Michael van Gerwen returns to the Netherlands Thursday night

Michael van Gerwen says he is expecting a "very special" atmosphere when the Premier League hits the Rotterdam Ahoy on Thursday night.

The Dutch ace made his return from the back injury which forced him to miss Night Five in Exeter and the UK Open with a 7-5 comeback win over Belgium's Kim Huybrechts at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow.

A high-quality opening saw Huybrechts score 171 on his way to the opening leg and Van Gerwen respond with a 109 checkout in the second, before claiming the first break of throw to lead 4-3.

WATCH: Barney's big entrance
WATCH: Barney's big entrance

Raymond van Barneveld made an emotional entrance in Rotterdam last year

Huybrechts, though, hit back with a 76 finish and took out 96 for a 5-4 cushion, only for the reigning champion to level, punish four misses from the Belgian with an 80 checkout to lead 6-5 and then take out a 14-darter to seal the win.

"I feel good and it was great to be back tonight," said Van Gerwen. "It's always nice to get the two points and Kim played well, but you have to take advantage if he misses and I did that."

Michael van Gerwen v Phil Taylor at the Rotterdam Ahoy

'Mighty Mike' acknowledged the generosity shown from a raucous Glasgow crowd, but expects it to be even more atmospheric when the Premier League hits the Netherlands on Night Seven.

"It's another two points for me and the crowd were nice, but next week in Rotterdam will be very special for me too," he added.

Also See:

Watch Premier League Darts this coming Thursday, from Rotterdam Ahoy, live on Sky Sports 1 HD from 7pm.

Night Seven - Thursday March 16

James Wade v Jelle Klaasen
Peter Wright v Dave Chisnall
Raymond van Barneveld v Gary Anderson
Kim Huybrechts v Adrian Lewis
Phil Taylor v Michael van Gerwen

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VOTE: PL Darts champion?
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