I'VE GOT TO GET MY HEAD OUT OF MY SAWGRASS

Mcllroy admits he doesn't just want to win - he really needs a victory now

- PHIL CASEY

RORY MCILROY admits he "needs and wants" a strong performance in the Players Championship as he bids end to his Major victory drought.

McIlroy began the year with second place in the Dubai Invitational and victory in the Dubai Desert Classic seven days later but has finished no better than 21st in each of his four PGA Tour events.

The world No.2 is chasing a second victory at Sawgrass this week and will also contest the Valero Texas Open right before the Masters at Augusta National - where a first Major win since 2014 would make him just the sixth player to complete a career grand slam.

Asked if his recent form meant he needed or wanted a good week at PGA Tour headquarters, McIlroy said: "Both probably.