Jack Nicklaus still expects Tiger Woods to beat his record of 18 majors.

After four months out of action amid the furore of a sex scandal, Woods returns at The Masters in three weeks.

The world number one has 14 majors to his name and Nicklaus told Sky Sports today: "He's going to return - that's good for the game of golf and that's good for Tiger because that's what he is. He's a golfer.

"He should play the game that he loves and the game he competes well at. Not just competes well at, he dominates at.

"I think everybody is anxious to see what happens. I thought if he did not play this year it would make it more difficult, but I expect him to pass my record.

"He's still a young guy and such a great talent. I did what I did and I'm sure he'll do what he can do."