Colin Montgomerie has praised Rory McIlroy’s impressive comeback form and believes the Northern Irishman can go on to seal the Masters title in April if he improves his putting.

The 28-year-old finished in a tie for third in Abu Dhabi last week after nearly four months out of the game due to injury.

A fantastic build-up to Augusta waits for McIlroy – which will include another seven tournaments – continuing in Dubai where he is currently tied second after round one.

The four-time major winner posted a stunning opening round 65 – showing flashes of class as he bids to win his third title at Emirates Golf Club.

“Rory is roaring back after 100 days away and a superb tournament last week. Who’s to say he won’t be in Dubai as well? I mean, this is good for the Masters coming up,” Montgomerie said to Sport360.

“I know how much it means to him to win all four Majors. If Rory holes out the way Jordan Spieth or Jan Rahm does right now, he will win the Masters.

“He hits the ball better than anyone through the green, it’s just a matter of getting it in the hole.”

In a Ryder Cup year, McIlroy’s early season form bodes well for a European team aiming to win the cup back from the American’s after suffering a convincing defeat two years ago at Hazeltine.