Michael van Gerwen backs Phil Taylor to return stronger after Premier League exit

Michael van Gerwen says he was surprised to see six-time champion Phil Taylor knocked out of the Premier League, but believes he will return stronger than ever.

Taylor missed out on a spot at London's O2 for the first time in the tournament's history after a 7-5 defeat by Gary Anderson in Newcastle last week condemned the 16-time champion of the world to an early exit.

'Mighty Mike', who is set to take on Dave Chisnall in a top-of-the-table clash in Brighton on Thursday, believes the former world No 1 cannot be underestimated and expects him to return better than ever.

"I was surprised because he didn't play badly," the Dutch ace told Sky Sports. "But on the other side, everybody's playing so well and it's so tough. Only four people can qualify for the Premier League play-offs.

"He's still playing very well but he was also a bit unlucky (not to qualify).

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"You can never write Phil off. He's a phenomenal player and he's making averages of 107 and 108 for fun which is still very good.

"I don't speak to people who are disappointed having just lost - it's something that you don't do. He's still a very good player and he's not going away.

"It's a little bit of a younger generation now and it's a little bit of a change, which is good. The people at home want to see Phil Taylor, but now it's time for another four players.

"Phil will always be important for darts because he's the greatest ever. He's been there for so long. I've got a lot of respect for him but I need to look to my own performances."

Phil will always be important for darts because he's the greatest ever. He's been there for so long. I've got a lot of respect for him but I need to look to my own performances.

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