Daryl Gurney has offered his backing to Josh Rock, suggesting he will overcome his difficult start to the Premier League season. Gurney believes Rock is set to “come good”.
Rock, currently ranked No.7 in the world, secured his first win on Night Eight in Berlin, defeating Jonny Clayton 6-3 in the quarter-final. Gurney thinks this result could be the catalyst for a change in Rock’s fortunes this season.
Gurney stated that Rock is only halfway through the Premier League. He added that the hardest stage is over because he has played everybody. He feels like the next one for him is just around the corner.
Gurney’s Support for Rock
Gurney, a two-time major winner, highlighted the successful partnership he and Rock enjoyed last year. Together they won the World Cup of Darts for Northern Ireland.
Gurney, who participated in the Premier League from 2018 to 2020, said he has been messaging close pal Josh Rock every week. He has been offering words of support, knowing exactly what his team-mate is capable of.
Gurney said he went to Belfast when Josh was playing in the Premier League. He added that he doesn’t give him advice because it’s Josh Rock. He thinks Josh is one of the best players on the planet and he doesn’t need his advice.
According to Gurney, Josh is so mentally strong and has come such a short way in such a short space of time. He thinks this will not affect him.
Gurney’s Own Premier League Ambitions
Gurney admitted he has no desire to return to the competition.
He stated that they want him back in the Premier League but he doesn’t need the Premier League. That is the last thing on his mind.
He added that he would need to win something major, such as the Worlds or the Matchplay, to even be in the thoughts. He doesn’t need that chaos in his life.
Gurney clarified that if they all of a sudden came to him and said, ‘Do you want to play in it?’ he thinks differently.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
Gurney said he can’t wait until they play the World Cup again and hopes they will defend it.
He added that every week on a Thursday he just replies back and goes, ‘Thanks, D.’
He said that you have to support your partner and that’s his partner. If he doesn’t support him, who else will?
Gurney is going to keep his confidence up until they get into the World Cup. He would rather go back-to-back World Cup champions than win an individual tournament for himself.
Rock returns to action and will face Jonny Clayton on Night Nine in Manchester.