Scotland’s Martin Laird insists a Ryder Cup place is within his grasp after joining the cream of the golfing world at the HSBC Champions event in Shanghai.

Laird shot an even par 72 to sit in a tie for 38th place with Ian Poulter and Simon Dyson after the opening round.

Laird shot to prominence after claiming the Justin Timberlake Shriners Open in Las Vegas last month.

The victory didn’t count towards the 26-year-old’s bid to join Colin Montgomerie’s squad at Celtic Manor as he hadn’t yet registered on the European circuit.

But Laird, who lies 120th in the Euro World Points List, is confident of muscling in on next year’s showpiece event.

“For months people were joking with me about the Ryder Cup,” said Laird.

“But it's amazing that since I won in Las Vegas my chance of qualifying for the team is no longer a joke.

“People also say I should have joined the Euro Tour before my win but I am not really disappointed.

“There is no point looking back and saying 'should I, would I or could I ?'

“I am happy with the situation I am in now and if I keep playing the way I have been I could still get myself on the European team.”