Extra preparation for Lefty

Mickelson: new putter

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Phil Mickelson sought out coach Butch Harmon for extra advice ahead of this week's Barclays Singapore Open.

The American contacted Harmon in a bid to tighten up a few issues with his driving ahead of the event at Sentosa Golf Club which is renowned as a real test off the tee.

Mickelson lost his world number two ranking to Sergio Garcia last week after the Spaniard's triumph at the HSBC Champions trophy and is looking to respond with a big performance.

However, he is wary of the test that lies ahead of him and is hoping his chat with Harmon will produce more accuracy with his driver.

"I was just on the phone with him (Harmon) before we got here, just making little tweaks because driving the ball here in Sentosa is a real test," the 38-year-old stated.

"There are tight fairways, a lot of water, a lot of penalties for poorly struck shots."

However, Mickelson feels an even greater examination of his game will come on the greens.

Thus the American has also opted to try out a new putter in Singapore as he bids to round off 2008 in style by claiming the $792,500 top prize on offer.

"I brought a putter with a little bit more loft," he explained. "The greens are very difficult and grainy. That will be the biggest challenge."