MARTIN Laird will relish the opportunity to return home this month to join the Scottish challenge for The Barclays Scottish Open at Loch Lomond.

Laird aims to capitalise on a fine debut in the tournament last year, when he found himself one shot off the lead after the first round before finishing 10th.

The Arizona-based 27-year-old might spend the bulk of his time on the USPGA Tour but his Scottish roots are never far from his mind thanks to the St Andrew’s cross he proudly displays on his golf bag, his belt and even on the tees he uses.

“I am extremely excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to tee it up in The Barclays Scottish Open at Loch Lomond once again,” he said.

“I had a fantastic time last year and I have been looking forward since then to having the chance to play in my home Open again. The support I received from the home crowd was brilliant and I look forward to having another good tournament this year on one of the best golf courses in the world.”

Last summer, Laird followed his appearance in The Barclays Scottish Open with a trip to Turnberry for The Open Championship