Rory McIlroy set to make a surprise return to PGA Tour board

• Webb Simpson requested world No 2 to take his place
• Four-time major winner resigned from policy board in November

Rory McIlroy's commitment to a stronger future for elite golf could be confirmed by a dramatic return to board positions on the PGA Tour as early as this week. Sources close to the situation have told the Guardian that roles for McIlroy as a director both on the PGA Tour's policy board and on PGA Tour Enterprises are subject to a vote on Wednesday, after Webb Simpson tendered resignation along with the explicit request that the Northern Irishman takes his place.

McIlroy reappearing on the frontline will represent a major boost to the PGA Tour and its sponsors as the sport attempts to end the disruption caused by the Saudi Arabian-backed LIV's arrival on the scene.