Danny Willett in early hunt at Masters after early return from shoulder surgery

Danny Willett was due to be sidelined for 18 months post shoulder surgery but has completed the first round of the Masters in Augusta after just six months.

EARLY RETURN: Coming back from left shoulder surgery six months ago that was supposed to sideline him for a year to 18 months, Danny Willett put himself in the early hunt for a second green jacket. Pic: AP Photo/Matt Slocum

Coming back from left shoulder surgery six months ago that was supposed to sideline him for a year to 18 months, Danny Willett put himself in the early hunt for a second green jacket.

Willett, the 2016 Masters champion, fired a 4-under 68 on Thursday, making birdies on three of his last four holes to post the early clubhouse lead before Bryson DeChambeau sailed past him. It was impressive stuff from the ailing 37-year-old Englishman, who made seven birdies on the day.