Padraig Harrington expects Ian Poulter to be with him at the Ryder Cup in September.
And he also expects to be more of a force himself at the coming US PGA Championship than he was after last year's Open breakthrough.
Harrington was back facing the media again this morning after a night of celebrating his successful defence of the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale.
The Dubliner beat Poulter by four strokes, a result that keeps the Englishman out of an automatic place in Europe's cup team as things stand.
But Harrington said: "I think it's inevitable he will play his way in from here. He's shown he is a big-time player and that's the type you want in the Ryder Cup."
Should Poulter remain in need of a wild card after the qualifying race ends in six weeks Harrington also believes that a runner-up finish in a major has to count heavily in the thinking of captain Nick Faldo.
Not in the top 10 himself until his superb performance - now he tops the table - Harrington can now relax in the knowledge that his spot for Valhalla is secure.
"The Ryder Cup is very entertaining once you're in the team!" he added.
Last season Harrington followed up his Carnoustie triumph with only a 42nd place finish in the US PGA, 16 strokes behind winner Tiger Woods.
The world number one will, of course, not be defending at Oakland Hills in a mere two weeks' time following his knee surgery.
"Last year it was far too much far too quickly - I don't think it's going to be like that this year," said the new world number three.
"It was a blur. This is more satisfying, but I don't believe I'm going to be as mentally hit.
"It's a more solid win and the high isn't the same. I'm looking forward to the PGA - I'll have to be disciplined in some area, but I should be ready."
Ranieri backs Stankovic case
Ranieri backs Lamps for success
WORK STILL TO DO FOR HARRINGTON
