US Open golf: Five outsiders worth a punt this week
Martin Laird 125/1
Strengths: Carries the ball a long way so good for the damp conditions at Merion; when putter is hot he’s hard to beat. Won the Texas Open in April
Weaknesses: Hasn’t contended in a Major; very streaky on the greens
Jordan Spieth 125/1
Strengths: Fearless, hits it miles, and is used to courses set up by the USGA from his time as a highly successful amateur
Weaknesses: Very young and unproven on the big stage
Ryan Moore 100/1
Strengths: Somehow knows how to perform well in big events and has lots of USGA experience. Has won the US Amateur and the US Public Links Championship
Weaknesses: It’s very hard to know which Ryan Moore will turn up
Lucas Glover 225/1
Strengths: Has won a US Open before and, when on form, is one of the most naturally aggressive players on Tour. Knows how to make birdies
Weaknesses: Is currently in a massive slump and is only in the field as a past champion
Aaron Baddeley 300/1
Strengths: One of the best putters in the world, which helps him churn out pars and scramble well
Weaknesses: In poor form and has never finished in the top 10 in the US Open
