GLASGOW golfer Scott Jamieson was swapping a wee thing for a Wild Thing as he made his first appearance of 2014 in the Omega Dubai Desert Classic today.

The 30-year-old, whose wife Natalie gave birth to the couple's first daughter just a fortnight ago, was grouped with colourful American John Daly for the opening two rounds in the desert.

Jamieson's duties as a new father meant he took a back seat from European Tour action over the past month. The former Scottish Boys' Strokeplay champ has not played since December's Nelson Mandela Championship in South Africa and missed the first two events in the Middle East Swing.

"It felt a bit strange leaving Natalie and the baby but I was looking forward to playing again after the longest break I've ever had on Tour," said the Scot.

Jamieson, who made his Tour breakthrough with victory in the Nelson Mandela event at the end of 2012, has made quiet, effective progress on the main stage since earning promotion from the Challenge Tour. He finished 59th on the money list during his rookie season in 2011, 53rd in 2012 and 31st last season.

The former EuroPro Tour winner has also played in two Seve Trophy contests for Great Britain & Ireland. Jamieson is now setting his sights high for the months ahead.

He added: "My main goal this season is to get into the top 50 in the world (he is currently 119th). That really is the next stage for me. I have to say that I'm very pleased with my progress on the Tour. I've made a big improvement every year. Each year I have been better and last season, I was substantially better."

Jamieson, who will travel down to South Africa from Dubai next week for events in the Rainbow Nation, is in the midst of changing management companies after his deal with Champions of Golf came to an end last week.

He said: "I have promised to speak to a few companies before making up my mind. I don't expect to make a decision until after Dubai."