Four-time Major winner Rory McIlroy said it would ‘mean a lot’ if he was to win his first tournament back in three-and-half months.

Playing in his first event since October, McIlroy remains in prime position for victory at Abu Dhabi Golf Club – where he has four second place finishes and two third places since 2010.

The Northern Irishman carded a third round 65, to finish one shot behind joint leaders Ross Fisher and Thomas Pieters on Saturday.

Fisher offset a lone bogey with eight birdies to reach the clubhouse at 17-under 199, while Pieters followed up his second round 65 with a 67.

“It would mean a lot,” said McIlroy. “I’ve had a lot of close calls here, I think about six top threes or something like that. I’ve never won my first start back out. I was close last year in South Africa, Stormy beat me in a playoff.”

“It would mean a lot. It’s felt like a while since I’ve won and just to give myself these chances; I gave myself a chance at the end of the year at Close House and wasn’t able to do it. I’m excited to get back on the horse and give myself another chance tomorrow.”

He added: “I probably scored a bit better. Short game was needed at times. But I putted really well. Hit the ball very well. So all in all, yeah, it was another great round and another really good confidence builder. Not just for this week but for the rest of the season, as well.”