Simon Whitlock believes that the injury that has kept him out of action could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
The Wizard suffered a setback when he broke his ankle in October, forcing him to withdraw from recent tournaments, but Whitlock is confident of making a winning return when he faces Dennis Smith tonight.
He said: “It’s been hard not to be involved in tournaments lately but I know I’ve been doing the right things. The break has allowed me to prepare for the World Championship and focus on that alone, so it may turn out to be a good thing.
“I’ve been practising more and more and managing a few hours a day in the last week and I’m throwing quite well. It has been a struggle physically, but I am ready mentally and that is so important. I aim to start with a solid performance and, of course, a win. If tonight goes to plan then I I’m sure I can hit top form after Christmas.”
An in-form Whitlock is a dangerous prospect for the rest of the title-chasing field. He proved that with a sensational run to the final of the Ladbrokes World Championship two years ago. The Australian is hoping for similar success this time around, and not just for himself.
He said: “I always want to do the best I can, but I have new sponsors (Leyland Paints and The Money Shop) and a lot of fans, who have been waiting for me to return. I want to do well for them too.”
The Premier League star rubbished suggestions that a change of footwear would affect his accuracy. He said: “Because of my injury I will be wearing more comfortable shoes but they are actually the same type I wore when I got to the final, so they might be a lucky charm.”
Whitlock will make his return to the Alexandra Palace stage tonight in the penultimate match of the first round.
By Chris Murphy