Rory McIlroy gives Royal Birkdale verdict after preparing at venue for this year's Open Championship, live on Sky Sports

Rory McIlroy gave a positive verdict of Royal Birkdale as the course prepares to host the Open Championship for the first time in nine years and the six-time major champion targets a second Claret Jug.

McIlroy finished tied-fourth at the Southport venue in 2017, seven shots behind champion Jordan Spieth.

The Northern Irishman - who won his sole Open title to date at another Merseyside venue, Royal Liverpool in 2014 - prepared at Birkdale this week ahead of the major from July 16-19.