Knee-sy does it for Van de Velde

Jean Van de Velde made light of his knee problems at the hilltop Santo de Serra course to move into contention for the Madeira Island Open.

The Frenchman chalked up a superb 65 to join overnight leader Jarmo Sandelin at 10 under after the second round.

Van de Velde said: “I have to be extremely careful because of the knee. But it is something I have learned to live with.

“Occasionally I will hear a slight disconnection of the leg and that can be alarming, but sometimes in these circumstances you learn more about yourself a bit quicker.”

Van de Velde chalked up five birdies and one eagle – at the seventh – in a splendid round.

“It was very rewarding, “ he said. “I am playing well and playing with a smile. My game has been pretty good recently and I feel fine going into the weekend.”

Five-time European Tour winner Sandelin admitted he has altered his style in the hope of winning a tournament again.

The Swede adopted a more cautious approach in the second round after a bogey at the fourth hole.

He said: “When you have never been disciplined on the course, it is hard work. I am trying to stay calm and not be too offensive. It is a matter of sticking to the game plan, no matter what.

“I felt comfortable today and hit more fairways and greens than the first round.

“To be honest I cannot remember the last time I walked off with a 68 and felt it could have been lower.”

Ireland’s Damian McGrane joined the group at seven under after posting a 69.