Had a real go at Oakmont, but last round jitters proved too much. Stunning 66 on the Saturday, but finished tenth after a final round 76. Another great European hope for Major success, Casey already has eight European Tour triumphs and made history at the Ryder Cup at the K Club when he became the only player to win a foursome match with a hole-in-one at the 14th.

Made the perfect start to 2007 by winning in Abu Dhabi. Only lost 2006 European Order of Merit to Harrington because of illness at the final event. Earlier in season won the Volvo China Open and the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles.

In contention at virtually all the events he entered Casey was supreme in the HSBC World Match Play Championship where he beat American Shaun Micheel by a record 10&8 in the final. Missed recent events with a back injury and fitness must be a question.

But if fit, Casey is a real contender.