Golf:Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy is considering playing on the US PGA Tour next season.

"I was looking at the (PGA Tour) schedule this morning," said the 20-year-old, currently third on the European money-list (Race to Dubai), ahead of this week's Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland.

"The way the schedule is, it makes it a little bit easier for me to play in America next year. I'm in no great rush to join the PGA Tour but the opportunity might not be there forever.

"There's no rush all round because I have to make my decision before December 1st. I'll be making it before then."

McIlroy would have to commit to 15 PGA Tour events but could automatically earn a card through winnings earned in 2009 tour events. He was third in the USPGA Championship and fifth in the Accenture Matchplay World Golf Championship.

With European money-list leader Martin Kaymer and second-placed Paul Casey both absent recovering from injuries, McIlroy, who finished third in the 2007 edition of the tournament to earn his tour card not long after turning professional, can go top even if he finishes second in Scotland.

McIlroy plays with his father Gerry in the pro-am format event over St. Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns courses, starting tomorrow.

"It's a big deal for me this week and the Race to Dubai will be in the back of my mind all week but first and foremost I've got to get my dad round," added McIlroy.