Sprang to prominence as a 17-year-old amateur at Royal Birkdale in 1998 when he chipped in from 45 yards at the 18th to finish tied fourth. Career dipped but has concentrated on America in recent years and sustained improvement has meant a place in the World’s top 50.

Has just three European tour wins and hasn’t yet won in America, but has been in contention at all the top events this year, especially the Masters, and was again prominent at Oakmont finishing level with Casey.

Has gone close at the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic and reached last eight of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. Another worried by back trouble, but a big-game player now and a contender.