ONLY one other Irish face, that of Padraig Harrington, has been seen at as many tournaments on the PGA European Tour so far this season. But while Harrington prepares to compete in his debut US Open this week, David Higgins has returned to his base on the south-west coast to recharge his batteries.

Higgins has played in 16 tournaments this season, the same number as his former Irish amateur colleague, and has been around for the weekend at most, of them. The problem is that Higgins has managed to do the hard part - make the cut - but failed to capitalise where it matters, over the final two rounds.

"It's a bit frustrating. I know I'm playing quite well and there is not much wrong with my game. I think I'm probably trying too hard. But it is definitely frustrating, especially messing up my scores over the weekend when I know I am capable of better," said Higgins.

As such, the break in the European schedule this week to allow the big names jet off to Congressional for the US Open provides a welcome chance, on two counts, for Higgins to spend a few days at home in Waterville. Firstly, he is recuperating from a cold and, secondly, when the batteries are recharged, he'll get a chance to work on his game with his brother Brian.

Higgins, who is currently in 132nd position in the order of merit with season's earnings of £17,348, probably needs around £60,000 to secure his card for next season. "I'm not even thinking about that yet. My sights are set higher, on challenging for a tournament," he said. Indeed, Higgins intends to play the next three tournaments after the Tour resumes: next week's Volvo German Open in Stuttgart, followed by the Peugeot French Open and, then, the Murphy's Irish Open at Druids Glen. He is likely to miss out on the Loch Lomond World Invitational and then attempt to qualify for the British Open.

Jose Maria Olazabal, meanwhile, has confirmed he will compete at Loch Lomond, the week after the Irish Open and preceding the British Open. The Spaniard, who spent 18 months sidelined through injury, has played in seven events (winning the Turespana Masters at Gran Canaria) since rejoining the circuit in February. In that time, Olazabal is 74 under par for 28 rounds, with a stroke average of 69.50, and he has never finished lower than 22nd position.