PETER MANLEY will make his return to competitive darts in Saturday's Players Championship in Wigan.
The former Las Vegas Desert Classic champion has not played for the past month, having spent two weeks in hospital after being diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat.
He has since been recovering at home, and although the 48-year-old will need to return to hospital for a procedure to get his heart back in rhythm during the summer, Manley is keen to get back into action.
"It has been a difficult time but I'm feeling a lot better," said Manley. "Even though I'll be back playing, I'm not putting any pressure or expectations on myself on Saturday.
"I was playing quite well, probably better than I had for some time, when I fell ill but there's no reason I can't regain that form this summer.
"I will be taking one step at a time. I've obviously not practised much in the last few weeks but I'm looking forward to being back amongst the other players in Wigan."
He added: "I've had a tremendous amount of support from people throughout the darts world and I'd like to thank everyone who sent their well-wishes."
Having picked up £900 in the four UK Open Qualifiers he has played so far, Manley has opted against competing in Sunday's tournament.