De Sousa v Wade: The finalists in their own words

James Wade

Here's what Jose de Sousa and James Wade had to say ahead of tonight's BoyleSports Grand Slam of Darts final in Coventry.

The pair will face-off at the Ricoh Arena over a best of 31 legs for the Eric Bristow trophy and £125,000 winner's prize.

Monday night saw De Sousa defeat Simon Whitlock to reach the final in his debut year in the tournament, while Wade edged out Dimitri Van den Bergh to reach the final for a third time.

"I'm unbelievably happy to have won [his semi-final]. I haven't felt like this in years," Wade admitted.

"I cannot explain how delighted I am to have won that game. It's not often I'm this happy.

"I'm going to keep pushing forwards. I'm going to relax now and enjoy myself.

"I don't want to think too far ahead. I'm not thinking about lifting the trophy or anything like that."

Jose de Sousa

Meanwhile, De Sousa is hoping for a fairytale ending to his dream debut campaign.

"To reach my first final of a big stage event is amazing, my emotions are very strong," said De Sousa.

"Last year I quit my job to become a full-time professional player. I still speak with my ex-boss, he's a wonderful guy.

"This has been a brilliant year for me both in darts and away from darts. I'm really, really happy at the moment.

"I think I'm going to make a solid place in the PDC. I'm really proud of myself.

"This year has been difficult for everybody. We have to stay away form our family a lot, it's not easy. I've had three days in my home over the last two months.

"All the people in Spain and Portugal support me. My phone feels like it might explode with all the messages of support!"

 

Click here for ways to watch the BoyleSports Grand Slam of Darts wherever you are in the world.

BoyleSports Grand Slam of Darts Final
Tuesday November 24 (1800 GMT)

Jose De Sousa v James Wade