Back to win: Rory McIlroy

McIlroy could become the third short-priced favourite in four weeks to win on the European Tour, after Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose recent triumphs on courses they thrive on.

McIlroy’s got a fantastic record in Dubai, with four wins, including two at Jumeirah. He’s finished 11th or better in all of his eight starts at this event, including six top-fives.

The four-time major winner has only finished T54 and T21 in his two starts since the Ryder Cup, but he’s been in contention on several occasions and won the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March.

McIlroy finished a shot behind winner Haotong Li at January’s Dubai Desert Classic after opening as a 5/1 favourite, and he’s worth backing in the Emirates at pretty much any price.

Each-way shouts: Haotong Li

Li produced a steely display to see off McIlroy at Emirates GC 10 months ago, and the 23-year-old’s recent form suggests he’s ready to contend in Dubai again.

The world No. 41 has finished T11 or better in each of his last five starts, including a runner-up finish at the Turkish Airlines Open and a T5 at the Nedbank last week.

That win in Dubai back in January proves that he’s got the mettle to see off top players when he gets in contention.

After finishing T30 and T13 in his two starts at this event there’s plenty of room for improvement, but there’s no hotter player on the European Tour at the moment so he’s an easy each-way pick.

Outside shot: Dylan Frittelli

A two-time winner on the European Tour, Frittelli is a big price this weekend at a course that should suit his game.

The South African ranks 12th in driving distance and 23rd in putts per round in 2018, and Jumeirah is a track that really rewards those who excel off the tee and on the green.

Frittelli finished fourth in his only start at this event last year, and he also finished T6 on debut at the Dubai Desert Classic earlier this year.

With four top-25s in his last seven starts, the 28-year-old’s form justifies an each-way bet.

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