Dutchman Raymond van Barneveld has insisted that he "can handle the pressure" of being one of the favourites to win the 2012 World Championship.
The 44-year-old has slid down the rankings in recent months following under-par displays at the Grand Slam of Darts and the Players Championship.
Despite having a dip in form, Van Barneveld believes that he is capable of winning the tournament at Alexandra Palace.
"The World Championship means everything to me," he told Sportinglife.com. "I can handle the pressure. If you look back at the last five or six years I always do well at the worlds.
"I know I'm going to do well this year but I have to put a lot of work in and I'm not afraid of that.
"My worst enemy is myself. If I don't defeat myself I know I can beat them all."
Barney will take on James Richardson in round one of the competition.
