Tommy Fleetwood 'can win The Open' as Tony Jacklin speaks out

Sir Nick Faldo has lifted the Claret Jug three times since, but all of those wins came in Scotland.

Fleetwood has now sparked hopes of a first English winner of The Open in 31 years with his superb five-under-par 66 on the opening day at Royal Liverpool, with the 32-year-old the talk of the course.

He ended round one as joint leader with South African amateur Christo Lamprecht and Argentina's Emiliano Grillo also in the mix.

Jacklin has now opened up, saying: “It's very encouraging to see the start Tommy has made.

"He has all the skill and ability to go all the way and win it.

"I am certainly going to be rooting for him.”

On how he thinks Fleetwood should approach the next few days as he looks to secure the trophy, Jacklin added: “It is vital Tommy stays focused as there are so many great competitors in this year's tournament.

"But he is now, undoubtedly, one of the favourites to walk away with the title.

“He's made a dream start, he has the home crowd behind him and the country willing him on too.

"There's tremendous pride in winning your own Open in the country of your birth."

Jacklin, a Two-time Major winner, is attending The Open ahead of hosting the Farmfoods British Par 3 next month.

Fleetwood has previously taken part in the event at Nailcote Hall and has credited the event in the past for helping to improve and enhance his short game.

A blockbuster field of golfers will take part in this year’s event. Ian Woosnam, Michael Campbell, Jean Van De Velde, Scott Drummond, Jarmo Sandelin and Mark Mouland will be among them.

Tony was speaking to Champions UK ahead of the Farmfoods British Par 3. To apply for free tickets, visit www.britishpar3.com