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Harrington defends form as Ryder pressure mounts

Padraig Harrington insists there is nothing wrong with his current form © Getty Images

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Padraig Harrington has launched a staunch defence of his current form as speculation mounts that he may have to face up to not being a part of Europe's team for the Ryder Cup.

The three-time Major winner, who has admitted that he would be "devastated" to not participate in the October tournament, is languishing in 17th place in the points list - and only the top nine are guaranteed a place in the team.

If Harrington were to fall outside that bracket then he would require a captain's pick from European skipper Colin Montgomerie - although he would be propelled into the top six if he were to triumph at this week's Irish Open.

"I was asked the other day if I got selected would I actually pull out," he said. "The inference was 'would you pull out because you're not playing well?'

"I've had more top 10s in the last year than I've ever had in my career, so going on a guideline that most people use I've actually had the best year of my career.

"I haven't won and that's certainly below my expectations and everybody else's expectations, but my form has actually been solid enough.

"I just have to wait and let it happen. I do try to be very disciplined in doing my own thing and not being influenced by outside factors - but clearly that one got to me."

Harrington's hopes of competing in the Ryder Cup have been boosted after Darren Clarke, one of Montgomerie's vice-captains, admitted that he expected the 38-year-old to take part in the competition.

"Personally I can't envisage that situation [Harrington not making the team]," Clarke said. "But I'm not the captain! We all know how good a player Padraig is. It would be very difficult to see Padraig not being on that team in Wales.

"It would be good to see him play really well and qualify and give Monty the extra choice of another pick. I think we would all like to see him qualify and we hope he does."

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