JUSTIN Rose is as good a bet as there is for a home winner of this year’s Open Championship , according to John Jacobs.

The world-renowned golf coach and former Ryder Cup captain believes Hampshire ace Rose, main picture, is in with a shot of topping the field at Royal Lytham & St Annes this week.

“Justin Rose is one who could well win,” said Lyndhurst -based Jacobs, the founding father of the European Tour.

“Two seasons ago, when he won at Jack Nicklaus’ course [the Memorial Tournament], I thought that he would burst through and become something very special.

“He won two tournaments in quick succession and was in contention for virtually everything for six months.

‘As good a bet as we’ve got’ “He’s still a very good player, but he’s not quite come through like I expected yet. But he’s probably as good a bet as we’ve got.”

 

Full story and Open preview in today's Daily Echo