DAVID Howell says his dip in form at the back end of last week’s Omega European Masters has not obscured his view of the ‘bigger picture’.

The Swindon pro was tied for the lead midway through the third round at Crans Montana, Switzerland, but fell away in the final 21 holes to finish 27th overall.

However, with a string of cuts to his name, Howell has confidence running through his veins and says he has no reason to think otherwise ahead of teeing off at the KLM Open today.

“It was disappointing to finish as low as 27th and a bitter pill to swallow, but I took so many positives from it and am looking at the bigger picture,” said the Broome Manor pro.

“The job now is to continue getting myself in contention and performing that little bit better.

“Three weeks out of four I’ve been within touching distance of the lead which is positive, and if I keep doing that we’re going to be really knocking on the door to move back up the rankings.

“I’ve been consistent for three months, I’ve made nine cuts in a row and I’m feeling a lot better and more comfortable with all parts of my game.

“There’s nothing I’m really concerned about so I’m able to focus on my course management and trying to get the best out of my game on a daily basis.

“I’m in a mindset where it’s about competing and getting round the golf course in the lowest number of shots, and that’s a nice position to be in.”

Hilversumsche Golf Club in the Netherlands is the venue for the KLM Open and Howell is looking forward to the unusual challenge it presents.

“It’s a lovely tree-lined course, very narrow and old-fashioned,” he said.

“It’s got the feel of a flat, Surrey golf course and there’s only two par fives and a lot of medium-distance par fours, so there aren’t too many birdie opportunities.

“If you hit it straight you’re going to fare well, it’s not a course that favours the longer hitters.”

Howell tees off with Jin Jeong and Christian Nilsson at 1.10pm.