Timely break should work wonders for Neil Robertson at UK Championship in York

For the 33-year-old world No 3 took five weeks off in the summer to return home to Melbourne with his partner Miller and son Alexander.

It was the first time the Cambridge-based potter had taken an extended break since moving to the UK 12 years ago.

He was rusty on his return for the new season, losing in the first round of his first three tournaments.

But he has since built momentum, and won last week’s Champion of Champions event in Coventry.

“I decided to spend five weeks in Australia over the summer which is something I haven’t done since moving to the UK 12 years ago,” he said.

“It’s harder for overseas players like myself and Ding Junhui because we have to make that sacrifice.

“I took my son Alexander and partner Mille to Melbourne and spent a lot of time with family and friends. I didn’t play snooker at all and missed a few tournaments and I knew it would take me time to find my form again. But I’m very happy with the decision. And now I’ve got a big title under my belt it gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of the season.”

Robertson returns to the York Barbican looking to repeat his UK title success of 2013, when he faces amateur Alex Taubman on Thursday.

“I will always have great memories of that moment,” he said. “I love York because it’s a great venue and we always get great crowds. I’ll be preparing really well for it this time and trying to get the trophy back.”