David Murdoch faces stiff competition if he is to retain his European curling title with seven of the world’s top ten teams set to take to the ice at Aberdeen’s Linx Arena on December 5.

The 31-year-old's troops begin their campaign against Sweden – ranked eighth in the world – in the morning before facing France in the evening and the Czech Republic 24 hours later.

In what should prove to be a dress-rehearsal for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver in February Murdoch will also come up against Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and world No.3 Norway.

Murdoch's side – currently ranked second in the world – beat Norway 7-6 to take European gold twelve months ago in Sweden and will be hoping for more of the same on home soil.

Meanwhile Eve Muirhead’s women’s team have an easier run in opening up against Italy and England – ranked five places below the Scots in 12th and 17th in the world respectively.

The 19-year-old will also face Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and Sweden all of which they would expect to meet in Vancouver in three months time.