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Knox hunting Ryder Cup points at Wentworth

Russell Knox hopes to boost his Ryder Cup chances at the BMW PGA Championship having finished second at the Irish Open.
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After seeing victory snatched away from him at the Irish Open by Rory McIlory, Russell Knox hopes to go all the way at the BMW PGA Championship.

The Scot led with three holes to play at the K Club last weekend only for McIlroy to produce two moments of magic to take the title.

Like Knox, Matt Fitzpatrick will make his debut at the tournament when he tees off on Thursday alongside Graeme McDowell and Stephen Gallacher.

Masters champion Danny Willett will also compete for the title, the newest major winner drawn with Victor Dubuisson and Soomin Lee for the opening round.

IN-FORM KNOX HOPING TO IMPRESS CLARKE

Despite defeat last weekend, Knox remains positive heading to Wentworth as he looks to maintain his impressive form in a bid to force his way into Darren Clarke's European Ryder Cup team.

The 30-year-old's runner-up spot in Ireland saw him boost his standing on the world points list and he has got his sights set on more this weekend.

"It [the Ryder Cup] is a huge goal now. After I won in China [WGC-HSBC Champions], it was realistic to make the team, but at the same time, there's still a lot to be done.

"Now I've finished second three time since that. To be honest, I expect to make the team now. If I keep playing the way I'm going, I think I can do it and I sure hope I do.

"It's great to be here. I grew up watching this tournament, I always dreamt of getting to play here."

AN RETURNS AFTER LIFE-CHANGING WIN

A year after his sensational win, defending champion An Byeong-hun is back at the scene of his greatest triumph.

The South Korean won by six shots 12 months ago, his final round 65 building on scores of 64 and 67 earlier in the tournament.

"It was definitely life-changing," An told the European Tour website. "It got me into a lot of events and boosted my confidence that I could compete.

"I remember every single shot I hit on Sunday. The memories are very clear."

ACCURACY A MUST 

The 7,302-yard course boasts a host of tree-lined fairways, so accuracy off the tee will be vital for any player hoping to be in contention on Sunday.

Wentworth has hosted this event every year since 1984, with all its greens having been remodelled between 2009 and 2010 under the guidance of Ernie Els.

WESTWOOD HOPING TO MAKE IT 23RD TIME LUCKY

Lee Westwood is yet to taste victory at the BMW PGA Championship despite playing it on 22 previous occasions - the two-time runner-up hopes to come out on top this week.

"I feel like my game is in good shape, and 10th was probably about the worst I could have done last week," said Westwood ahead of his latest attempt at the title. "It's a big week for any European Tour player. I wouldn't want to miss this week."

Meanwhile, two-time champion Luke Donald hopes a return to former glories can help boost his form. He said: "My game is starting to get back to where I want it to be. I would love to make the Ryder Cup team.

"I feel like I’m playing well enough to make it to Hazeltine and contribute and be someone who would help Europe retain the Ryder Cup. It would be great to do well here at Wentworth."

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