European Masters preview, picks & analysis

PATRICK REED is the star attraction at the European Masters at Crans-sur-Sierre in Switzerland. This is a golf course that is known for low scoring, and Reed likes to go low.

He has spoken about his desire to play more golf on the European Tour as he attempts to complete his golf education. In truth, he is unlikely to learn very much this week as he already knows how to produce birdies in some quantity.

He faces a quality field, including Jamie Donaldson and his Ryder Cup teammates Sergio Garcia, Lee Westwood and Victor Dubuisson. Donaldson loves this place, having finished in the top 10 in his past three appearances, including a tie for third in 2011.

Donaldson has had a disappointing season and will be hoping that a return to Crans-sur-Sierre will get things going again. he said: “The Omega European Masters is a great tournament played at a stunning venue, and the course is always challenging. I really look forward to playing in the Swiss Alps in this brilliant event.”

Danny Willett is also due to compete. The Yorkshire played some brilliant golf at St Andrews during The Open Championship. There tends to be an "after the Lord Mayor's show" feeling in the week after The Open, but many of Europe's finest golfers are travelling to the Swiss Alps, while many others will be looking anxiously at the Race to Dubai and their place on it. Time is running out for those looking to secure their cards for next season.

There are no such worries for the likes of Alexander Levy, who will start as one of the favourites, Marc Warren, Tommy Fleetwood, David Howell, Ross Fisher and George Coetzee.

The altitude in Switzerland means the ball travels about 10% further. If Coetzee can bring his A-game with him, he could tear the place to shreds and may even threaten to break 60.

European Masters Betting Picks

To win: George Coetzee. Ready to pick up another title

Each way: Patrick Reed. Will love this course

Each way: Sergio Garcia. Does love this course

European Masters Fantasy picks:

George Coetzee. Could rip the course to pieces

Patrick Reed. Prepare for a birdie blitz

Sergio Garcia. Usually does very well here

Tommy Fleetwood. Come on Tommy, for goodness sake

Jamie Donaldson. In need of a morale-boosting week

David Howell. Good to see him back doing what he does best

Ross Fisher. Climbing back, rediscovering his best form

Alexander Levy. Showing signs of wanting to win again

Julien Quesne. Underrated Frenchman

Marc Warren. Beautiful swinger of the club