Raymond van Barneveld reveals secret weapon for Premier League play-off finals
RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD has a secret weapon for tonight's Premier League play-off finals - a Rocky speech from actor Morgan Freeman.
Raymond van Barneveld says Morgan Freeman speech is his secret weapon
The five-time world champion faces fellow Dutchnan Michael van Gerwen in the semi-finals at London's O2 Arena where Barney is hoping to defend his Premier League crown.
On Tuesday Barney - whose walk-on music is rocky theme 'Eye of the Tiger' - received a transatlantic recorded message from one of his biggest fans, with Oscar-winner Freeman reciting a famous monologue.
Van Barneveld said: "Jaco, my manager, tried to get a quote off Sylvester Stallone because I'm a big Rocky fan. Unfortunately he has swapped management companies but instead they found Morgan Freeman instead to say some nice words.
"Freeman sent me a message into his phone - he is a huge darts fan. I had goosebumps all over my body when I heard it. It was simply amazing. It's given me real inspiration to do well."
Gary Anderson meets Dave Chisnall in the other semi with the final later in the evening.