O'Neil eyes Open chance

West Ham United midfielder Gary O'Neil is again looking to qualify for golf's Open Championship this week.

West Ham ace tries his chances in golf qualifier

West Ham United midfielder Gary O'Neil is again looking to qualify for golf's Open Championship this week. The amateur has previously revealed his desire to make the Open and he will tee-up on Monday at the London Club to try and make the field for Royal Lytham & St Annes next month. O'Neil plays off scratch and does have the advantage that the course is his 'home' club. "It's my home course so hopefully I'll feel quite comfortable," he said. "I know the course well but it is only 18 holes so you need to have a good day - but you never know." O'Neil admits he would love the chance to be a professional golfer when he gives up football. "I am realistic enough to know I need to improve a lot but if I could be a pro golfer when my football career ends it would definitely be something I would look to do," he said. "But my problem at the moment is consistency. My bad shots can go 50 yards off line and that will cost you two shots straightaway. "I don't think there is anything major that needs changing, it's just about having the time to be able to practise." O'Neil is joined in the field by former England international Lee Bowyer.