Mickelson: Tiger's return sorely needed

'Lefty' ready to tee off 2010 season but laments absence of his great rival

SAN DIEGO: The absence of Tiger Woods from the PGA Tour has dealt professional golf a major blow and the game needs the world No 1 back in action, second-ranked Phil Mickelson said on Wednesday.

Woods, the sport's most bankable player, has been in hiding since admitting last month he had cheated on his wife and he has given no indication as to when he will return to competition.