10 hopes for The Open

1) We don’t have too much Tiger talk. It’s a shame he’s not fit but let’s not remind ourselves of the fact every 10 minutes
2) We don’t get too disappointed with Justin Rose when he doesn’t improve (as he almost certainly won’t) on his Birkdale heroics in 1998
3) The weather is kind – it’s so much better spectating at the course and on TV with the sun on everyone’s back - and not unfair as it was for half the field in 2002
4) Ian Poulter minds his language
5) Colin Montgomerie minds his manners
6) Sergio Garcia puts himself in with a chance of exorcising his Carnoustie demons - and don’t forget his crumble 12 months before at Hoylake – going into Sunday (and not just because I’ve backed him)
7) Any Ryder Cup issues don’t interfere with The Open (it’s very possible with captain Faldo in town). That’s for another day – let’s concentrate on the biggest championship of the year for now
8) Peter Alliss keeps well and is thus able to save the BBC’s coverage
9) A genuine British challenge come Sunday afternoon
10) We are treated to even 50 per cent of the drama of Carnoustie last year

By Chris Bertram