Donald's best major finish was third at last year's US Masters

"I've always said US Opens seem to suit my game," said the 28-year-old.

"I hit the ball quite straight, I rely on hitting fairways and greens and kind of grinding out par sometimes, especially on tough courses.

"That's the kind of game plan you need for a US Open. I would put the US Open at the top of the majors for my chances of winning one."

Interview: England's Luke Donald

It is getting to that time where majors are really important to me, Luke Donald

No European player has won the event since Tony Jacklin in 1970 and the last European major winner was Paul Lawrie at Carnoustie in 1999.

But the Briton refuses to let such depressing statistics upset his bid for a first major title in the 106th US Open at Winged Foot, starting Thursday.

"It is getting to that time where majors are really important to me," added Donald, whose best major finish of third came in his US Masters debut last year.

"I'm really starting to prepare my year around the majors."

My game recently has been very consistent, which isn't like me Paul Casey

Compatriot Paul Casey is also aiming for a good showing at the 7,246-yard course as he attempts to make amends for last year's poor display with his most consistent form to date.

Casey, 28, withdrew with a back injury before his second round at Pinehurst 12 months ago after shooting 85 in the first round.

But the Englishman returns on Thursday, fresh from finishes of 10th, fourth, fifth, fifth, second and 11th in the last six tournaments on the European Tour.

"My game recently has been very consistent, which isn't like me," said the five-time European Tour winner, yet to make a cut in three US Open appearances.

"I've always had my good rounds thrown in with my 'other' rounds.

"The goal was to get into the top 50 in the world rankings and get into this and the Open so it's been a successful period.

Miss the fairway and you're probably going to have to hit a lob wedge back in to play - if you find it Ian Poulter

"I can't be upset that I haven't managed a win, I have to be excited about playing good, consistent golf which I've never done before."

Casey is also confident that he will not be hampered by a hand injury after he accidentally stabbed himself with a pencil.

"It's still very sore but as long as it doesn't split open I will be okay.

"I've superglued it together after cleaning it out! It's not affecting the grip too much but when people shake hands it's a problem."

Another Englishman Ian Poulter is in fine fettle after winning a US Open qualifier in New Jersey to book his Winged foot berth.

"I'm in form, I'm hitting lots of fairways and I'm pretty confident of having a good week," said Poulter, whose best major finish is 11th at the Open at St Andrews last year.

"I'm third on the driving accuracy statistics over in America and the key point of this week is hitting those fairways.