Paul Lawrie had to settle for third in the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles – but insists he is a realistic contender for next year’s Ryder Cup.

Lawrie – the 1999 Open champion – finished behind Swedish duo Peter Hedblom, who fired a closing 67 to win and Martin Erlandsson, who carded a ten-under 62 to claim second.

The top three finish earned Lawrie a cheque for £78,820 and moved him from 97th to 73rd on the Race to Dubai Order of Merit.

And despite being without a Tour win for seven years the 40-year-old is adamant he can be a part of Ryder Cup skipper Colin Montgomerie’s plans next year.

"Based on the things I am working on and the way they are going, I think I've got a real chance of making next year's team – I've just got to keep thinking that in my head," said Lawrie.

"I know the stats don't lie but I think I'm a better player than someone who's only played in one Ryder Cup team and I'd love to be in the side in Wales – it's going to be a hell of a team."

Fellow Scot Gary Orr finished fifth at Gleneagles with an impressive final round 64.