Harrington prepared to lie to himself in order to keep going

Pádraig Harrington has often been accused of over-thinking but when it comes to mental games and the power of positive thinking, the man is a master.

As he prepares to chase a second Irish Open title at Fota Island tomorrow, paired with Rory McIlroy and Stephen Gallacher in a marquee early morning group that will have Fota Island hopping from the word go, he remains as steadfastly determined as ever to emerge from his struggles and return to the big time. He’s even prepared to lie to himself, if that’s what it takes.

The news that the Open Championship will be played at Royal Portrush as soon as 2019 does not give Harrington any more motivation to remain competitive and add to his major haul. Still, he’s clearly delighted.