DAVID Howell is in a relaxed mood ahead of the Joburg Open, despite spending two weeks away from the European Tour.

The two-time Ryder Cup winner missed the last two tournaments and is looking forward to getting back out there after a disappointing display at the Dubai Desert Classic, where he tied 116th.

The 41-year old feels more at ease at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club, despite the dismal weather conditions.

“The Middle East was a disaster, all-in-all, so I was glad to get away from there,” said Howell “The weather is terrible down here (in South Africa) but these are a couple of courses that I really enjoy.

“They’re smaller tournaments, so it’s not so much from that perspective, but the courses are ones I feel a lot more comfortable on.

“I’m more comfortable going into these. I haven’t played a lot of golf at home in the last two weeks but I’ve done as much as I can with the weather being so poor.

“I’ve only managed to play nine holes but that was in torrential rain, so I’ve done what I can. I’m just looking forward to getting going really.”

During his time in South Africa, the 41-year-old will also be vying for one of three qualification spots for the 146th Open in July.

The top three players who have not already qualified for the major will then be handed a place at Royal Birkdale.

Howell will be hoping to get his hands on one of the three berths on offer, following last year’s tied-22nd place finish at Royal Troon.

“I can remember my first attempt at qualifying (for the Open) on my first year on the tour – I just missed out and I was mortified,” added Howell “To play in the Open Championship was a dream. I’ve been pretty fortunate. I’ve played in quite a few now in a 21-year career.

“I think I have played in 14 or 15, which isn’t bad, so I’m pretty happy with how I’ve qualified and I’m hoping to add one on this year.”

A turbulent 2016 saw Howell struggle with a long-standing foot injury, as well as minor discomforts in his wrist later in the year.

Earlier in the year he had also complained of a back problem, but Howell goes into the event with no qualms over his fitness.

He said: “I saw my chiropractor a couple of times while I was at home – so far, so good, but I have only played nine holes.

“I haven’t got any concerns going into it. It is more of a case of running repairs and maintaining the body as well as I can.”

Howell will also be joined by fellow Wiltshire golfers Jordan Smith and Laurie Canter in Johannesburg.