Michael Flynn details remarkable background to win over Michael van Gerwen

Michael Flynn is hoping that his win over Michael van Gerwen can inspire securing a place on the professional darts circuit as the social care worker detailed the remarkable circumstances behind the best result of his career.

The Limerick man was a late call-up to face the three-times world champion and caused a stunning upset, winning 6-4 in Monday's first round Players Championship 3 in Rosmalen in the Netherlands.

'The Flying Flynn’ was at home feeding his infant daughter when a phone call alerted him to the chance to compete in the event due to a withdrawal.

Speaking to RTÉ Radio 1, the amateur player said: "I was feeding my daughter at about 11am and my phone rang, it was my manager Greg. He said ‘you're after getting called into the Pro Tour, what are the chances you can get to the Netherlands as you're playing tomorrow?’"

"It was hectic from there.

"I spoke to my manager at work. She was so nice about it. She understood what was after happening and she was able to give me the time off to be able to do this. And the lads at work just kind of filled in for me and got my jobs done and whatever had to be done.

"The baby was in her high chair so my wife took over. I was on the phone for about 20 minutes. Greg and I were looking up flights and trying to see was it possible to make it to Dublin for a flight because there was none out of Shannon that would have suited.

"We found a flight at 5:50pm so we headed for that. I packed the bags and got on the road as soon as I could."

The draw for the Players Championship only takes place on the night of the event, so it was unclear who he would take on.

It transpired to be ‘MVG’, who was playing in his hometown event in front of an expected crowd.

"He is considered one of the greatest