DAVID Howell is looking for improvement as he steps out at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic this week.

Howell has struggled for form so far this year after missing the cut for the second tournament running last week - this time at the Qatar Masters.

Before that, he was left frustrated again at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship where a score of one-under-par was not enough to make the weekend rounds.

The 41-year-old admits his slow start to 2017 has left him slightly unhappy ahead of this week’s competition.

However, the two-time Ryder Cup winner is also taking strength that his mystery foot injury, which thwarted his progress throughout last year, seems to have resolved itself.

“I am frustrated with my start, obviously. I want to get going this week and put a result on the board,” said Howell.

“There isn’t too much positive for me to build on in the first two events (of 2017). This week, the first thing first I want is to get through the cutline.

“That is the first prerequisite, but all things being equal, I am looking forward to it.

“The foot is a real positive. That has been good so I am really pleased about that but I do have a back issue.

“My body is taking a little while to get into the swing of things, I wouldn’t say I am firing on all cylinders physically but hopefully it isn’t too much to worry about.

“It has been a real positive. I feel like I am coping with it nicely and it’s not causing any real trouble.”

After winning the tournament back in 1999, Howell sees no reason why this can’t be the event which gets his season off the ground. “It’s a great event. I won it many years ago and it’s got bigger and bigger ever since,” added the Broome Manor pro.

“It will be a real thrill to play well and be nicely positioned on Sunday afternoon coming through on the last few holes.

“To win or just to challenge in the higher places would be great way to kick-start my season.”