Raymond van Barneveld apologises for World Grand Prix display

Raymond van Barneveld has taken to Twitter to apologise for his performance during his defeat to Mervyn King at the World Grand Prix.

The Dutchman bowed out in the second round after losing 3-1 in a match where he attempted to break on the bullseye several times in the double-in tournament in Dublin.

His sub-standard display in the fourth set saw his three-dart average drop down to 71.54, but the five-time world champion has revealed that a back problem was the cause of his 'lack of focus'.

Really sorry about yesterday #barneyarmy. My back still hurts, couldn't focus or concentrate after the 1st set. Good luck @m_king66 !

— Raymond v Barneveld (@Raybar180) October 10, 2014

Van Barneveld's return to the oche is expected to be at the European Championships later this month.