PHIL TAYLOR is looking forward to a "special game" against Raymond van Barneveld in the McCoy's Premier League Darts on Thursday.
The two stars clash at the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield on Week Ten of the Premier League, in one of the most eagerly-awaited games so far this season.
The duo have battled out a string of classic clashes in the past, notably the 2007 World Championship final and also a previous Premier League meeting in Sheffield in 2007 when Taylor came from 5-1 down to defeat van Barneveld 8-6.
Taylor averaged 112.91 when the pair met in Belfast in Week Three as he took an 8-4 win over van Barneveld, who averaged almost 106 on that night and recorded a 112 average of his own last week in Nottingham.
"It could be a classic," said Taylor, who has never lost to van Barneveld in their previous Premier League meetings since 2006.
"It's a special game and something I look forward to - I'd tune in and watch it on TV if I wasn't playing!
"Barney's a different enemy now - he's got his head back on right and he's playing like we know he can do. He was absolutely brilliant last week and this will be special because we're both in great form."
Speaking to Sky Sports News Radio, he added: "People like Raymond, he's been around for many years and has earned the right to be supported because he's won five World Championships and a lot of major titles.
"I've had a good run against him and I think I'm in his head a little bit - but you're only as good as your next game and I've got to be on the ball tonight.
"I'm nice and relaxed and enjoying the season but even though I'm in the Play-Offs I won't be easing up. If I'm not beating them they'll get some confidence and think they can beat me when we get to the Play-Offs."
A small number of tickets are still available for Thursday's McCoy's Premier League Darts at the Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield by calling 0114 256 56 56 or visiting www.motorpointarenasheffield.co.uk.
McCoy's Premier League Darts
Week Ten
April 12 - Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
James Wade v Gary Anderson
Simon Whitlock v Kevin Painter
Phil Taylor v Raymond van Barneveld
Andy Hamilton v Gary Anderson
Tickets: 0114 256 56 56 or www.motorpointarenasheffield.co.uk
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