Seven Players To Light Up The Masters: Ian Poulter

This is the second in a series of seven players who should be keenly watched during next weeks Master Championship, and who could even be wearing the Green jacket by late Sunday afternoon.

Today I take a look at one of the main European contenders in Britain’s Ian Poulter who if his ability on the course can match his self-confidence off it, he can definitely mix it with the best in the world.

Poulter’s infamous words at the beginning of 2008 have followed him all around the tour, quotes that included comparing himself to the World No.1 Tiger Woods when the duo are at there best.

The American of course went on to win at the US Open last year, and while missing out at both the Open Championship and the USPGA Poulter wasn’t on hand to put his words into practise.

Now maybe I’m being slightly harsh on Poulter here, at the end of the day he one of Europe’s top players, something he proved at last years Ryder Cup, when as a wild card entry he top scored for Europe with four points.

He also acted as a huge motivator for the visiting team, and someone who really could get up the noses of the American’s, and similar acts of emotion could see him as one of the main forerunners for this year’s title.

Poulter’s pedigree at a competition like this isn’t brilliant with his highest Masters finish being tied for 25th at last years event.

However it’s his performance at last years Open Championship that for me adds him to the list of contenders.

He lay down a very credible score and was the clubhouse leader until Padraig Harrington overhauled the Englishman, and completed successive victories at the event.

Poulter’s display last year was one of a player who could perform in a pressure situation, and at the best of times with some of the finest in the world.

Although his comments at the start of the year might have been slightly premature, Poulter has shown he isn’t far off some of the world’s elite.

His Ryder Cup performance showed that he could perform even when the crowd was on his back, skills he will need if he is to succeed next week.

The Augusta galleries are sure never to forget Poulter’s own personal comparison with the great Tiger, but with the World No. 1 returning it could be his chance to prove all the doubters wrong.