Jonny Clayton has vowed to “attack” to maintain his Premier League lead ahead of his side’s live broadcast on Sky Sports on March 12.
He explained that consistently winning the first match and earning two points were the basic expectations for him, along with the extra points, a real bonus.
The 2021 league winners are five points ahead of the rest of the field and moved up the table with a win on night three.
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Highlights from the semi-final between Luke Littler and Jonny Clayton on Day 3 of the Premier League in Glasgow.
“At the end of the day, you just try to score as many points as possible,” Clayton said.
“If we can qualify for Week 17 after Week 12, the job is done.
“So I’m always looking to attack, I’m always looking for two points.
“Anything more than that is a plus.”
But on Thursday, Clayton will face seven-time Premier League winner Michael van Gerwen in their opening match, with the Dutchman looking to overtake the league leaders.
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Jonny Clayton hit a brilliant 156 against Luke Littler in Week 4 of the Premier League.
Van Gerwen is currently fifth in the table with eight points and appears to be struggling for form since winning the opening game at Newcastle on February 5.
“I love playing against Mike. I have a lot of respect for Mike,” Clayton said.
“You know, I’ve always liked the way he plays. He never criticizes anyone else.
“He’s just playing, and if it’s not tonight, he blames himself, he doesn’t think anyone else or anything else matters.
“He goes back and focuses on what he did wrong, and I think I get a lot of advice from him.
“No one else can help you. Only you have to make things right. I really respect that. So if you want to play against Mike, you just go up and play darts. That’s not crazy.”
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Take a look back at some of the most memorable Premier League moments in Cardiff.
Their friendly yet fierce rivalry extends beyond the Premier League as Clayton are keen to bunny-hop van Gerwen atop the PDC Order of Merit to secure fourth place behind Gian van Veen.
“I did the right thing and there’s a good chance I’ll get on the mic or pass,” Clayton added.
“But you know, I’m sure he’d have some ideas about it.
“He wouldn’t want the little Irish guy to get past him, so that’s my goal.
“If I can be better than Michael van Gerwen, I can always say I am one point better than Van Gerwen in life.
“Then I will be very happy.”
Who will be the winner of this year’s Premier League Darts? Watch Night Six live on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports+ from 7pm on Thursday 12 March. Stream darts and other top sports with NOW.
