![NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland walks off the 18th green during the third round of the British Masters at Close House Golf Club on September 30, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/VR6T7JN7DDB3V347MED52T66EE.jpg?smart=true&auth=86a7fe756087e5012bddfddc254db3e753b448abc5373258dc2083466eb1dd4f&width=400&height=225)
The new year presents Rory McIlroy with a wonderful opportunity to stage a career comeback. Andrew Redington / Getty Images
The new year presents Rory McIlroy with a wonderful opportunity to stage a career comeback. Andrew Redington / Getty Images
McIlroy's comeback and Fleetwood's defence among Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship talking points
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, presented by EGA, tees off this Thursday. Here we look at some of the main talking points heading into the week