British Open profile: Paul Casey

Best Odds: 75/1 - PaddyPower
Age: 33
World Ranking: 14
Best Open results: T3 - 2010, T7 - 2008

Open Record:

Had arguably his best chance of a first major in this event last year, although you might not guess it from the final scores. Casey finished eight shots off the pace after a final round 75 somewhat ruined a great week’s work. It was the opposite story at Birkdale in 2008 when the Englishman was excellent after opening with a 78, still finishing T7.

Form:

In January Casey won the Volvo Golf Champions tournament in Bahrain - his first victory for 20 months. But make no mistake, he is nowhere near the player he was in 2009 when he rose to number three in the world. It raised a few eyebrows when the 33-year-old missed out on the last Ryder Cup, even as a captain’s pick, but he has done little since to make that decision look questionable.

Verdict:

Some British punters will get enticed by the long odds on a household name but in truth the figures are there for a reason. Casey has done very little of note since he played three good rounds at St Andrews last year. There’s always some chance that huge home support will bring out the best in a very talented golfer, but there are probably better long shots out there. Missed the cut at Sandwich back in 2003 - improving on that is the first target.