Rory McIlroy wants strong Players showing after 'middle of the road' form

Rory McIlroy has finished no better than 21st in each of his four events on the PGA Tour.

Rory McIlroy is targeting a strong display in the Players Championship in the build-up to the Masters (John Raoux/AP)

Rory McIlroy accepts he both “needs and wants” a strong performance in the Players Championship as he targets an end to his major victory drought.

McIlroy began the year with second place in the Dubai Invitational and victory in the Dubai Desert Classic seven days later, but has finished no better than 21st in each of his four events on the PGA Tour.