Howell hoping for a Swiss breeze (From Swindon Advertiser)

Howell hoping for a Swiss breeze

6:00am Thursday 30th August 2012 in Sport By Andy Warren

DAVID Howell is going into this weekend’s European Masters in a relaxed frame of mind as he continues to work his way back towards the top of his game.

Howell played four good rounds at the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles last week, making his eighth straight cut in the process, and is feeling good about his game again after a couple of tough years.

The 36-year-old’s results have steadily improved throughout the season, and he will compete in Switzerland without any worries over his game.

“I really am feeling like I am in quite good shape at the moment, and to be honest it is a refreshing feeling because I do not have to worry too much about my game which means I am able to relax a bit more.,” he said.

“After one round at Gleneagles I went down to the range because I thought of a little thing I could do to help my rhythm, and it seemed to work which is pleasing because it means I am going in the right direction.

“At times I have been playing beautifully in recent weeks and I have been striking the ball a lot better, and I am starting to feel like I did when I was at my best.

“My short game has come on a lot too, so I am going into events with more confidence than I have in recent times.”

Howell has good memories from the Crans Montana course in Crans-sur-Sierre, and is looking forward to a competitive weekend in the Alps.

“It is not a course where I have ever really been in contention to win, but I have always done okay there,” he said.

“It is a very tricky, technical course but it is set in beautiful surroundings, and to be honest it is a course that should suit my game.

“You need to hit the ball straight and I think I am doing that at the moment, so there is no reason why I cannot have a good week.”

Howell begins his campaign at 12.50pm UK time, alongside home player Martin Rominger and Northern Ireland’s Gareth Maybin.