Premier League: Underdog Jonny Clayton feels he has a point to prove

Few will feel they are being written off more than Clayton, and as early as the eve of night one in Newcastle, the 2022 and 2023 semi-finalist got the impression that no one fancies his chances.

Clayton – the eighth and final player to address reporters at the Premier League’s media day – jokingly quipped that tournament organisers did not expect him to taste further success since the trophy was not present on the table for his interview, as was the case for the other seven participants.

The 51-year-old is also the huge outsider with bookmakers to win the event this year, although that is only adding fuel to the fire as far as ‘The Ferret’ is concerned.

“It motivates me alright because people don’t rate me, obviously they rate the others more. Let’s see on finals night,” he said.

Josh Rock, his opponent on night one, jokingly called Clayton the “old boy” and said he hoped the Pontyberem product would be “rusty”.

But Clayton is hoping his experience will prove beneficial against debutant Rock.

“To be fair, he’s a good lad, he’s full of fun, he’s confident and he’s a great player,” added Clayton.

“He’s bouncing, he’s ready to go. But I’ve had the experience so hopefully a little bit of experience will help me through.”