Rory McIlroy insists he is prepared to take the battle to become Europe's number one to the wire after the Ulsterman lost his place at the top of the standings to Lee Westwood at the weekend.

The 36-year-old Westwood claimed a dramatic victory at the Portugal Masters on Sunday to move 200,000 euro ahead of McIlroy in the Race to Dubai.

McIlroy, whose bid for the Harry Vardon Trophy continues at next week's World Matchplay, said: "Lee (Westwood) overtook me at the weekend and I think we are playing the same tournaments in the run-in. It will be good to chase him all the way to the finish and I will have to play some really good golf to try and overtake him."

He continued: "There are lots of other guys still in with a chance like Martin Kaymer and Paul Casey, and there are a few others just outside but can make big moves.

"I will be trying my best to get back on top."