Duval set to sign up for European Open

DAVID Duval, who showed a very welcome return to form when shooting 62 in the Capital Open in Maryland last weekend, is an almost certain starter in the Smurfit European Open at the K-Club on June 3-6, writes Charlie Mulqueen.

Duval won the 2001 British Open at Royal Lytham St Anne's but has been in a slump in more recent times. He has been a regular visitor to The K-Club in the past, often in the company of Tiger Woods.

"I like the course and the hospitality and I'll know for sure in a few days," the American said.

It has also been revealed that the American company Gaylord Sports which represents, among others, Phil Mickelson and Rich Beem Chubby Chandler's International Sports Management (ISM) and AGB Sports, Australia, will represent each other's clients around the world.

The new arrangement will not affect the involvement of ISM's man in the US, former Walker Cup and European Tour player, Eoghan O'Connell.