Phil Mickelson has revealed that he is looking forward to defending his Scottish Open title at Royal Aberdeen Golf Course this week.

The American lifted the trophy last year before going on to clinch the first Open Championship of his career seven days later.

"For me each round presents a great opportunity to work on my game," the 44-year-old is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"It gives me the chance to get sharp as well as to compete and attempt to defend the championship I'm very proud to have won last year. Tomorrow's supposed to be terrible weather. I hope it is because I would love to get out in that stuff and be able to play in it as I never get a chance to back home.

"I have actually started to play pretty well in this weather over the years. So, it's fun and it's a great opportunity."

The Scottish Open gets underway in Aberdeen on Thursday.