Masters 2018: Paul Casey has head ‘in the right place’ as he looks to claim first green jacket

Casey comes into the week buoyed by his victory in the Valspar Championship in Florida last month

Casey arrives at Augusta in a bit of form (Getty)

Paul Casey is keeping a tight rein on his Masters expectations despite enjoying one of the best recent records at Augusta National.

Casey has finished sixth, fourth and sixth in the last three years in the season's first major and comes into the week buoyed by his victory in the Valspar Championship in Florida last month.

"I have a lot of confidence but it's at a good level, it's not too much," Casey said. "I was always told the definition of cocky is that nice, warm, fuzzy feeling you get just before you mess up. So I'm confident but I've got my head in the right place.

"My record here is good, although it needs a W (win). But you look at the contenders and it's a really strong list. It seems like more than ever so I'm very understanding that I'm probably listed as one of the top 10 guys who have a chance, but it's a strong field.

"The thing that made the difference in Tampa was great putting. That's the thing I feel like I have got to grips with now. The technique has been improved and I feel more confident and positive about it, which puts a bit more freedom on the rest of the game.

"I've always struck it well and now there's not as much pressure if you miss a green. That would be the difference between standing here today and standing here last year and hopefully that parlays into something better than sixth."