Alex Higgins' planned comeback gathering momentum today as it was revealed the two-time world champion also intends to have another tilt at the title.
The 53-year-old, due to compete in the Benson & Hedges Championship at Mansfield on October 23rd, has entered Embassy World Championship but the chances of Higgins returning to the Crucible Theatre next April are remote.
Higgins won the second of his two world crowns 20 years ago on an emotional night in Sheffield but it is eight years since he trod the boards at the Crucible and he would probably need to win 12 qualifying matches in order to book a return visit.
The World Snooker Association have confirmed they have received an acceptance form from Higgins and are now awaiting his £200 entry fee.
The first qualifying round takes place in Harrogate next month but the identity of his first world championship opponent since losing 5-1 to Darren Limburg in the 1996-97 qualifiers remains unknown as the draw has yet to be made.