M2M Russian Open Preview, Picks & Analysis

THE city of Moscow hosts the M2M Russian Open, with a huge opportunity for somebody to walk away with a European Tour title and a two-year exemption - and the chances are all the greater because this is an event that has failed to attract an especially strong field. But, when all is said and done, a win is a win - and an exemption is worth its weight in solid gold for any player.

Nobody fits the bill better than Edoardo Molinari, a former winner and Ryder Cup player who has struggled through a combination of loss of form and injury. He has shown signs of life in 2015 but has thus far been unable to string together four good rounds. The Italian is the class act of this field - although David Horsey might have something to say about that - and is convinced that a win would turn everything around.

Speaking of Horsey, he is the form man in the field after his recent victory, and will want to kick on and prove that his win in Denmark wasn't a fluke. He was struggling to hold on at the end, but comes here as the defending champion and can't wait to get going. Another former champion is Michael Hoey, of Northern Ireland. Hoey has been a regular winner on the European Tour and is due another success.

Damien McGrane is another Irishman who is long overdue a really good finish. He played decent golf at the Czech Masters but McGrane, who is one of the best putters in the business, was uncharacteristically poor on the greens. Scott Jamieson is another man who showed signs of a return to form in the Czech Republic. The Scot is a player who needs to feel confident to play well, and that must have given him a huge boost.

Bradley Dredge is another who is heading to Moscow with his game in great shape. The Welshman is on a roll right now and he would love to crown it by winning the Russian Open.

The novelty value will be provided by a certain Yevgeny Kafelnikov. If the name sounds familiar, then so it should - he was one of the best tennis players in the world for many years before quitting the game and turning to golf. He is now a full-time pro and is a decent player, but he will not be figuring anywhere near the top of the leaderboard.

Russian Open Tips & Picks

To win: Scott Jamieson. Looking really good

Each way: Edoardo Molinari. Too good to stay in the doldrums for much longer

Each way: Michael Hoey. Streaky player. When he is good, he is very good

Russian Open Fantasy Picks

Scott Jamieson. If his putter is hot, he wins

Edoardo Molinari. Seeking confidence with the short stick

Michael Hoey. One of the best when he hits form

Damien McGrane. Gutsy little performer

Craig Lee. Always capable of finishing top 10

Bradley Dredge. Welshman is heading for decent end to the year

Robert Dinwiddie. The Englishman is another who is in form

David Horsey. Will come here with good thoughts

Thawom Wiratchant. Big hitter with the touch of an angel around the greens

SSP Chawrasia. Has struggled after a bright start to the year

Image Credit: Twitter @TrionZ