The Masters is the next aim for Ross McGowan, who took second in the Dubai World Championships.

The Banstead-born golfer had four birdies in a row on the back nine to close with a 68, just behind fellow Englishman Lee Westwood's course record 64.

McGowan, tipped for the Ryder Cup team, said the key to his good form was playing a waiting game.

"The secret is patience really," McGowan explained. "I was waiting most of the summer without turning in the scores, but then I get this result in Dubai. After this I've moved up the world rankings to 70th.

"My target now is to get in the Masters, which is the only competition I'm not yet competing in." For that he needs a top 50 rinking.

With Westwood and Rory McIlroy coming first and third in Dubai, Europe now has six players in the world's top 10 golfers, and McGowan admits he would like to be the seventh.

He said: "Having six out of the top 10 shows how the Europeans are definitely improving. They are getting closer to the Americans. It's quite exciting. Hopefully I'll be joining those soon.

"South Africa is next on December 17. So I'm hoping to play well there and then enjoy a nice Christmas at home. Then I have three events in the Middle East.

"I play golf at Banstead Down and Walton Heath whenever I'm around. It's nice to come home every now and again, I've got some good friends there."