RORY MCILROY has called on the help of a renowned sports psychologist to help him win an elusive Masters title.

The world number two needs only a green jacket to complete a golf Grand Slam.

It has eluded him in eight Masters to date but McIlroy hopes the presence of Dr Bob Rotella can help him find a winning edge.

McIlroy, 33, has worked with the psychologist over the last few years and finds him to be a big source of help.

The Northern Irishman says Rotella makes him feel more relaxed and confident, which could be key to McIlroy winning in Augusta.

He told The Masters media team: “I’ve worked with Bob Rotella now pretty consistently over the last few years.

“So just chats with him – I always feel a bit better about everything, a bit better about myself, after I have a chat with him.

“He’s actually getting in today, we’re going to spend a little bit of time tonight and tomorrow.

“I just feel, after I’ve talked to him, a lot more relaxed, a lot more loose a lot more confident in myself.

“So I’d say if you’re talking about the mental side of things I just focus on those chats with Bob.”

McIlroy got off to a slow start on the first day of action on Thursday.

He holed five birdies but they were cancelled out as he carded a level-par 72.

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler is well placed after a four-under 68, while Tiger Woods limped to a 74.