Michael van Gerwen has launched a scathing attack on Peter Wright, telling the two-time world champion that he is 'playing c***' and should retire. The Dutchman's outburst came after Wright suffered a heavy defeat to German debutant Arno Merk in the third round of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.
Van Gerwen, who was due to face Wright in the next round had the Scot advanced, did not hold back when asked about his rival's performance. 'No, I'm not really surprised by his performance because he's been playing c**p lately and I think it's time for him to retire, anyway,' he said.
The comments are the latest in a war of words between the two players, which began when Wright questioned Van Gerwen's eyesight earlier in the tournament. The three-time world champion responded by saying Wright was not 'worth his breath' and 'couldn't win a raffle' these days.
Van Gerwen now faces Merk on Sunday night, and he is determined to avoid the same fate as Wright. 'I think the biggest plus for me is the performance is going to rise... I need to make sure I'm concentrating on my own performance and I shouldn't look to anyone else,' he said.
After his own victory over William O'Connor in the second round, Van Gerwen expressed satisfaction with his form. 'I put a lot of effort in this match and I think from here on I can do some more damage,' he added.
