Bjorn lays down Ryder Cup marker

Thomas Bjorn defied gusts of up to 30mph today to open up a four-stroke lead in the Smurfit European Open – and show Ryder Cup captain Ian Woosnam how well he plays on the course where Europe defend the trophy next year.

The Dane, who served as an assistant to Bernhard Lange last September, is desperate to win back a place on the team and although qualifying does not start for another two months a victory at the K Club west of Dublin would have to be noted.