Butch Harmon expecting a "ready" Tiger Woods

Butch Harmon expects Tiger Woods to return ready to win when he eventually makes his much-awaited comeback.

Reconstructive knee surgery has kept the world No.1 out of action since his US Open heroics, after which his reign at the top of the rankings has come under threat.

But, world-renown coach Butch Harmon is backing his former pupil to return in prime condition.

"This is the fourth time Tiger has had to undergo surgery on that knee of his which means something has to be terribly bad with it because it hasn't recovered fully in the past," said Harmon.

"I think he came back too soon after his previous operations and it hasn't helped because he's had to go out again.

"This time, however, I don't think he's going to be back until he's fully fit. It may take time but I think he will be looking to make a comeback only when he knows he's ready to win.

"But at the same time there are a few young players who are doing very well and if I were to pick one from each Tour, I'd pick Anthony Kim from the USPGA and Rory McIlroy from the European Tour."

Harmon was speaking in the UAE ahead of the unveiling of The Butch Harmon School of Golf.

Where next?

- Butch Harmon questions Montgomerie Ryder Cup captaincy - Butch Harmon labels Williams' comments "deplorable" - Tiger Woods spares caddie the sack - New TaylorMade R9 range picture gallery