MICHAEL SMITH is looking to take a more relaxed approach after picking up his first Betway Premier League point in Dublin last Thursday.
The former World Youth Champion had suffered a tough introduction to the Premier League, losing three games on the opening two weeks after stepping in to play twice on the opening night in Leeds.
He was defeated by Peter Wright and Adrian Lewis at the First Direct Arena before going down to James Wade in Newcastle in another re-arranged fixture, after Robert Thornton missed out through illness.
However, Smith battled to a draw against Dave Chisnall in Dublin last week to get his Premier League challenge up and running, and he is looking to upset the odds against world number one Michael van Gerwen on Night Four in Aberdeen.
"The first week was my debut and then I found out that I had to play twice, which was tough and then the week after I arrived in Newcastle to play Robert and I had to play James," admitted Smith.
"I was scared of getting eliminated with no points. I think I can beat everyone but there's always that doubt in your mind about not winning, and that's why I don't think I was playing well.
"I can relax now that I've finally got a point on board and now I'm aiming to get the two points.
"I'll be a massive underdog against Michael and I've got nothing to lose. I've played him loads of times and I've beaten him before, and he's battered me too!
"If I'm up there enjoying myself, anything can happen and my darts will go in. I want to have fun, hit big scores and checkouts.
"I'm learning every day, even when I'm practising, and I'm trying to be more consistent on TV."
Betway Premier League
Night Four - February 25
GE Oil & Gas Arena, Aberdeen
Adrian Lewis v James Wade
Gary Anderson v Raymond van Barneveld
Michael van Gerwen v Michael Smith
Phil Taylor v Dave Chisnall
Peter Wright v Robert Thornton
Tickets: Sold Out