Former world snooker champion Neil Robertson believes he is ready to shine after playing catch-up all season.

Robertson is targeting success at the UK Championship in York following his victory at last week’s Champion of Champions.

The world number three won his first title of the season in Coventry by beating Mark Allen 10-5 in the final after returning to his native Australia this summer.

“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,” Robertson told www.worldsnooker.com.

“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.”

The first Triple Crown event of the 2015-16 campaign started yesterday, with 128 players chasing the title and a top prize of £150,000.

Robertson won the trophy in 2013 to become the first overseas player to complete the Triple Crown, having won the World Championship in 2010 and the Masters in 2012.

“I will always have great memories of that moment,” said Robertson, who faces Alex Taubman in the first round tomorrow.

“I love York because it’s a great venue and we always get great crowds for the tournament.”

Round One result: Ken Doherty bt Tony Drago 6-0.