Wednesday 2 December 2015 14:07, UK
Michael van Gerwen should not take a break ahead of the World Darts Championship, says Wayne Mardle.
The world No 1 is planning to briefly rest before the Ally Pally bonanza, which is live on Sky Sports from December 17, after enjoying his most successful year so far.
But Mardle believes that Van Gerwen should remain at the oche despite a hectic schedule to maximise his chances of regaining the title he won two years ago.
To mentally switch off and then switch back on again in game mode and tournament mode is not that simple.
"I'm not sure it's the best preparation - only he will know," Mardle said. "Did Phil Taylor take breaks? No, learn off the best, that's what I reckon.
"He doesn't need to sharpen his game because being away from something you do all the time, a break is as good as a rest.
"That's great for him, but to mentally switch off and then switch back on again in game mode and tournament mode is not that simple."
In 2015, Van Gerwen completed the full set of winning every PDC major at least once during his career.
But in order to succeed at Ally Pally in the tournament won by Gary Anderson last year Van Gerwen must maintain the momentum that he has strived to build up, says Mardle.
He said: "Why is Van Gerwen taking a break this year? I think it's to reduce the stress of it being a busy year and I think he's doing it to get away from the draw, the bookies, and the TV crews.
"He's going to turn up at the Worlds fresh, to a point, but will he be match-fit? I think so, but I'm not sure it's the best preparation for him."
The World Darts Championship is live on Sky Sports between December 17 and January 3.
By purchasing a Sky Sports Day Pass for £6.99 or Sky Sports Week Pass for £10.99, you can enjoy access to all seven Sky Sports channels and watch on a TV with a NOW TV Box or on a range of devices.
