Van Gerwen admits he is “annoyed” after another World Grand Prix flop

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN admitted he is “annoyed” after suffering another early exit at the World Grand Prix.

The world No9 crashed out 2-1 to Ryan Joyce in Leicester to suffer a THIRD consecutive first-round loss at the tournament.

Van Gerwen, 37, has now failed to reach a quarter-final at any of the opening FIVE ranked majors for the first time since 2011.

The Dutchman also finished sixth in the Premier League table before suffering a first-round World Series Finals exit to Daryl Gurney after missing SIX match darts.

MVG was left frustrated by another opportunity slipping away as Joyce capitalised on his missed doubles.

He said on stream: “I want to say something. Of course I’d rather be in Leicester as well. When you miss so many doubles you should go back on the practise board.

“I’m annoyed as much as you about the Grand Prix because I should not have lost that one.

“It’s really annoying. But I am working hard and I want to make sure I keep investing time in myself to make sure I come back stronger.”

Van Gerwen insists he is putting in the work behind the scenes as he attempts to rediscover the form that has made him one of the biggest names in darts.

He added: “I’m practising really hard to be fair. Of course it has to do with confidence and everything. It’s not easy but I am getting there, don’t worry.

“Of course I had a tough period but never give up, keep battling.”

The three-time world champ knows he needs more matches if he is to climb the rankings and believes one big triumph could completely change his fortunes.

He continued: “I have to play more and more tournaments for my ranking. Let’s see how it goes.

“Do you know one tournament win everything will change. That’s how it works. So quickly can it go.

“Then let the haters be the haters.”

Van Gerwen was also asked who he expects to lift the World Grand Prix trophy.

He said: “I think it’s going to be Gerwyn Price. Jonny Clayton did good as well. But the winner of them is going to get far.”