Through the looking glass of Peter Alliss.

During the TV transmission covering the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, in May, Peter Alliss observed the lack of practice, dedication and preparation by some of the younger elements who have entered professional golf in recent years.

Alliss, immediately was attacked for making the claim, in particular by Nick Dougherty, who among other things, accused him of being an old fuddy-duddy completely out of touch with the modern game.

Peter Alliss, may be long in the tooth, he certainly has graced the golf scene on both sides of the Atlantic for many years prior to the birth of any of the "young lions" and he certainly knows what he is talking about.

The attitude of some who have recently joined the professional ranks is exemplified by the following :-

Young Rory McIlroy, from Northern Ireland, created quite a stir during a glittering amateur career, gaining Walker Cup honours and putting up an impressive show as leading amateur in the British Open Championship last year.

Sadly, his debut year as a professional, has been disappointing, currently he is 90th in the rankings after 15 events and unless vast improvements in his game occur quickly, he is in danger of not retaining his card.

Putting, it would appear is the major cause of his problems, hence he has sought a cure by seeking the advice of "Dr" Paul Hurrion, who is Padraig Harrington's guru in this field.

The question is: Would Rory have been better advised to seek the assistance of Padraig Harrington or some other fellow professional, rather than the obvious cost incurred by consulting a so called "specialist" ?

Being an apprentice for a year or two would not only produce better professionals, it would also eradicate the scores of "sorcerers" who dominate currently, simply to relieve young men of the cash provided by sponsors too early in their careers !