The Open: Matteo Manassero waits in wings

Published on 19/07/2012 00:00

ITALIAN youngster Matteo Manassero is hot-footing it to Lytham in the hope of a late Open call following the withdrawal of Sweden’s Robert Karlsson last night.

“Travelling to Lytham right now as 2nd reserve, never know! Worst case I’ll watch a bit of golf,” the twice-European Tour winner said on his Twitter feed.

American Ben Crane had been first reserve but also used his Twitter site to convey the news he would not be travelling to the Lancashire links course. Compatriot Michael Thompson was then promoted to first reserve with Manassero behind him.

The 19-year-old Italian had a chance to qualify by right at the Scottish Open last week but after a promising first two rounds he slipped down the leaderboard and finished in a share of 36th place. It looks like Manassero will be forced to spectate, however. Karlsson’s withdrawal means the field is now 156-strong rather than 157 and to accommodate the change, this morning’s first round will now start at 6.30am instead of 6.19am, with no plans to add anyone to the field at this late stage.

“Have got into some bad habits in my game and routine that I need to address. Taking a few weeks off,” said world No 54 Karlsson on his Twitter site.

England’s Barry Lane and American James Driscoll, who were going to play as a two-ball, will be joined by South African Garth Mulroy, while former Irish Open champion Richard Finch moves from 6.30am to 1.10pm, replacing Karlsson alongside American Mark Wilson and South African Branden Grace.