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MICHAEL Smith may have had to settle for the runners up spot in the William Hill World Darts Championship, but both he and his conqueror Michael van Gerwen admitted that one day he will be crowned champion.

Millions of television viewers, across 135 countries, saw the Clock Face thrower fall short against the world number one at a packed Alexandra Palace on New Year's Day.

After storming to the final, the 28-year-old had high hopes of winning the sport's most prestigious trophy.

But key missed doubles meant he was never able to take advantage of van Gerwen's slip-ups meaning the Dutch master walked away with the Sid Waddell Trophy for the third time.

If there is any consolation, Smith took away a £200,000 second prize, climbed up to sixth in the world rankings and earned respect and recognition.

Although he was bitterly disappointed in the immediate aftermath, he vowed to return stronger.

Smith said: “I’m gutted about how the game turned out, I just didn’t get going.

"I was playing so badly and what made it worse was that it felt on stage like my easiest game because Michael was not doing anything ­— but I was not punishing him.

"There was one set where I really got going ­— with the 124 and 127 ­— but then I died off again.

"I kept looking at the trophy and thinking take what I deserve, that belongs to me

“I’m annoyed with myself for how I played, and if I took my chances then maybe it would’ve been a different game, it would have been 5-5 instead of 7-3.

“I tried way too hard but it’s my first World Championship final and I guarantee it won’t be my last.

“One day I will lift this trophy.”

It is a busy time for Smith, who marries fiancee Dagmara Malczewska at the weekend ­— and after the honeymoon the Premier League will soon be on the horizon.

Smith is again one of the elite players who will compete in the huge arena tournament between February and May.

He has vowed to re-double his efforts practising on the board to find that extra touch to give him the edge next time.

Although there was a defiance that he would return stronger, he could not hide his bitter disappointment.

"I have Junior (his eldest son) outside and I feel like I have let him down and everyone in St Helens too.

"It won't happen again I can guarantee that.

"I am sorry I didn't put on a better show and am gutted at the minute.

"Defeats have made me stronger and I always come back better and I will," he said.

Champion van Gerwen echoed that sentiment after lifting the trophy.

“Michael is a phenomenal player, he pushed me all the way and I am sure that one day he will win the World Championship," he said,