McIlroy reveals McDowell backing

Rory McIlroy revealed last night he had received a message from US Open champion Graeme McDowell after establishing a four-shot lead at The Masters – saying he loved him.

“I don’t know if that’s the beer talking or just him,” said McIlroy, who will be trying to win his first major 10 months after fellow Northern Irishman McDowell won his at Pebble Beach.