Spanish Open golf form guide: Other candidates

OTHER CANDIDATES

DANNY WILLETT Willett first came to my attention when making the top-ten here as an amateur in 2008, and remains one of the best prospects in Europe. He came in for strong consideration, though I have concerns that this more penal rough will curb his attacking instincts too much.   ALEXANDER NOREN Noren made the top-ten last year and has a good record in Spain. He'll need to improve on this year's wayward driving, though.   PETER LAWRIE As a previous course winner, and one of the straightest drivers around, Lawrie has to make the shortlist.   JOHAN EDFORS Edfors is in decent form, with top 20s in three of his last four starts, including two top sevens. I suspect he needs a little more room off the tee than he'll get at Sevilla though, where he missed the cut previously.   CHRIS WOOD Despite struggling in his early attempts on the PGA Tour, Wood rates a highly plausible first-time winner back in Europe. Top 20s in all three high-class Gulf Swing events promised much for his second full season.   SIMON DYSON Dyson may have struggled recently in the States, but he is always worth considering in Europe, as two 2009 titles illustrated. He has missed the cut on both previous visits to Sevilla, however.   JAMIE DONALDSON After going close at 100/1 for this column a fortnight ago, it would be frustrating to miss out were Jamie to finally break his duck. He maintained that decent form with another top-six in Korea, but doesn't particularly appeal on reflection of his Sevilla best of just 35th from three tries.   ROBERT-JAN DERKSEN Derksen ticks many boxes, having twice previously made the topten on this course and finished sixth last week. He's another for the shortlist.   JOOST LUITEN Here's another very interesting prospect. Luiten made a big impression when first seen a couple of years ago, and after a spell on the sidelines with injury, seems to be finding his range again with three top-15s from his last six starts.   GONZALO FERNANDEZ CASTANO Castano wasn't far off the pace last year, finishing 14th, and would have to rate as a very strong candidate on his best form. His last two results in ideal conditions were rather disappointing though.

Where next?

Tour news: Open de Espana preview Equipent reviews: Wilson Staff Ci9 irons Competitions: Golf prizes to be won Golf opinion: Join the Golf Monthly forum