Rory McIlroy has admitted that he is delighted to be in contention for a tournament win for the first time this season.

The Northern Irishman posted 67 on day two of the Texas Open to head into the third round just three shots behind leader Billy Horschel.

However, McIlroy believes that his second-round performance shows how his game is improving ahead of the Masters next week.

The former world number one said: "I'm looking forward to getting into contention. I haven't really been in contention this year and it'll be nice to get in the mix.

"I want to play well and know if I play well, I'll have a great chance to win. I knew the conditions were good and you had to take advantage of it."

McIlroy won five tournaments in 2012 but is yet to record a victory this year.