ASPINALL LAUGHS OFF RETIREMENT RUMOURS

NATHAN ASPINALL joked he has NOT retired after social media speculation over his reduced PDC schedule.

The world No16 revealed fans have been questioning his future because of his limited appearances on the ProTour this season.

Aspinall, 34, has played in just eight of the 24 Players Championship events this year after previously admitting the floor circuit can trigger his dartitis.

He said: “People keep thinking I have retired! I have been seeing on social media because I am not playing tournaments.

“Who needs ProTours when we have the European Tour!”

The two-time major winner booked his place into the third round of the European Darts Open after averaging a whopping 107 to thrash Mickey Mansell 6-1 in Leverkusen.

Aspnall revealed he was desperate to finish his match quickly so he could watch England's World Cup quarter-final.

The three lions went on to beat Norway 2-1 after extra time to book their place in the semi-finals as they continue their bid to lift the trophy for the first time since 1966.

He added: “I wanted to make light work of that because I wanted to go and watch England.

“Mickey played well, but I just felt so relaxed tonight.

“I am looking forward to watching England, and I think that made me a bit more relaxed.

“It was a great win, and I am looking forward to tomorrow.

“I am more interested in the England game, but that is why I played so well, so we could get there quicker. It was all part of the plan.

“But honestly, I knew I had a tough game against Mickey. He plays his way, but it didn't affect me. I'm just very happy with the win.

“I am looking forward to playing tomorrow. I just hope I am not on early. At the bottom later on so I can have two beers!”

The Asp has shown flashes of his brilliance this season, winning the German Darts Grand Prix and reaching the final at Players Championship One.

Aspinall is looking to retain his crown at the Ostermann-Arena when he takes on Ross Smith in round three on Sunday afternoon.

Words: Aaron Nijjar