Graeme McDowell believes the likelihood of the British Open returning to Northern Ireland could be a step closer with the 2014 British Amateur championship to be played at Royal Portrush.

The R & A has announced their second most prestigious event after the British Open will be returning to the County Antrim links gem for only a third occasion and a first time since 1993.

Royal Portrush where Graeme McDowell honed his 2010 U.S. Open winning game.

“That’s great news coming so soon of confirmation the Irish Open heading back to Royal Portrush this year,” said McDowell who is contesting this week’s Commercial Bank Qatar Masters.

“I hear they are working hard at Portrush and I know they are going to have to do a lot to the course with regards getting crowds around it, and they’re willing and able to do that.

“I know also the R & A will be in attendance at the Irish Open and Portrush will be trying to prove they can host a major golf tournament.

“But news the 2014 British Amateur championship is heading back to Portrush has to be seen as hopefully another step closer to getting The Open back there.

“Whether or not it happens, you can be assured Royal Portrush will continue to do everything to state its case.

“So hosting an Irish Open and now the British Amateur is a great start in that regard.”