"It's a no-brainer" - Former world champion insists Michael van Gerwen still deserves Premier League place despite rankings slide

Mark Webster has voiced his concern over Michael van Gerwen 's current form. The former world champion believes the Dutchman is finding it increasingly difficult to win matches and fears that a return to his old level could prove a lengthy process.

Webster is far less concerned about Luke Littler 's recent setbacks, however, believing too much is being made of a few defeats for the 19-year-old Englishman. In an extensive interview with Online Darts, Webster discussed the situation surrounding both leading players.

It is Van Gerwen's performances in particular that concern him, with the three-time world champion struggling for form while his position in the world rankings also comes under increasing pressure. "You never really fancy him to get them at the minute" Webster has known Van Gerwen for years and has plenty of sympathy for the Dutchman.

That makes his current struggles particularly difficult to watch. I like Michael, I really like him.

I came into the sport around about the same time as him and we got on really well. I felt really sorry for him when he lost against Ryan Joyce the other night.

According to Webster, Van Gerwen's finishing and his play at the decisive end of legs have become particular problems. Where he once regularly produced important finishes under pressure, that confidence is currently missing.

He looks a bit edgy on finishes at the back end of legs. I'm talking about those two-dart combinations above 60.

You never really fancy him to get them at the minute. The Welshman believes Van Gerwen himself will have to take the initiative if he is to emerge from this difficult spell. "He's just got to put in the hard work.

He won't just laugh this off and he'll take this seriously."