Woosnam nearing full fitness

Ian Woosnam admits he is still feeling his way back to health at this week's Murphy's Irish Open at Druids Glen.

The Welsh Ryder Cup star has been out of action for a month after breaking a knuckle bone when his right hand was jammed in a door playing with his children.

"I'm about 80% at the moment," said Woosnam. "I had hoped to return last week, but when I went to practise the pain went right up my arm straightaway.

"I've been getting physio and now I'm all right for about nine holes, but then it starts to get tired.

"I've also got to get the confidence to commit to the shot again because I don't want to jar my hand, but it's good to be playing again.

"This week and next week at Loch Lomond is really just about building myself up for the Open at Carnoustie."

Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal also has a broken hand at the moment, but expects to make his comeback at the Open in a fortnight.

Woosnam's absence has seen him tumble to 32nd in the Ryder Cup table with only nine counting tournaments to go.