It appears that the bookmakers have opted for youthful exuberance than wise old heads to conquer Royal Birkdale in this week's British Open over the Lancashire links. Not surprisingly, one of the two young guns at the top of the list is Lee Westwood, who has won three of his last four tournaments in Europe, while Tiger Woods is also on offer at 11 to 1.

Westwood is a class act who simply can't be discounted and will always offer a run for your money. But he can't be expected to win every week, can he? And Colin Montgomerie, who had shouldered the "best player yet to win a major" tag until Westwood's emergence, isn't exactly bubbling with confidence at the moment although odds of 14 to 1 are about as good as you'll get in a major on the big Scot.

The Americans normally play well at Birkdale and, so, David Duval gets the tip to replace his compatriot Justin Leonard as the British Open champion. Duval is priced at 14 to 1 to take the title - he is a good driver, which should ensure he doesn't visit the rough too frequently, is a good putter and thinks his way around a course. He also has the confidence that comes with winning, so he won't show any fear should he get into a winning position.

Meanwhile, Scott Hoch represents good each-way (1/4 odds for 1-2-3-4) value at 50-1, especially if the weather is kind.