Michael van Gerwen believes Phil Taylor is obsessed with their rivalry
Wednesday 27 April 2016 14:55, UK
Michael van Gerwen has taken a swipe at Phil Taylor by suggesting 'The Power' has become obsessed with their rivalry.
World No 1 Van Gerwen and Taylor played out a tense 6-6 draw on night seven of the Premier League and the pair then shared a lively post-match interview.
Taylor issued a warning of 'I'm coming for you' and currently holds a two-point lead over second-placed Van Gerwen at the top of the table.
Recent dazzling displays from Van Gerwen have sparked fresh debate about whether he can replace Taylor as the greatest player in the sport and the Dutchman has joked that he is dominating the thoughts of the 16-time world champion.
"Phil never used to do this and say things like that," Van Gerwen told Sky Sports. "In every interview he is talking about me, so I'm probably on his mind."
Van Gerwen still hopes to snatch top spot from Taylor and can pick up two more points when he plays James Wade on Thursday night.
"I've got things in my own hands," he said. "I need to win by good leg differences to make up five or six legs and I think I can do that.
"I feel good, so let's see what is going to happen."
'Mighty Mike' will meet Taylor again on the closing night of the regular campaign in Rotterdam and expects the Stoke man to receive a hot reception.
"It's going to be a big night," said Van Gerwen. "I always need to play against English players and now they have to come to Holland for a change.
"They need to travel before and also will have the crowd maybe against them. It's a huge thing for myself. I always gets good support when I play in Holland."