Harrington enjoys four-shot lead

Padraig Harrington has been struggling badly in recent months

Defending champion Padraig Harrington leads by four shots after the third round of the Ladbrokes.com Irish PGA Championship at The European Club.

The Dubliner carded a third round of 73 to lie two under par, four ahead of Simon Thornton, as he attempts to win the title for a third successive time.

Gavin Lunny and Richard Kilpatrick are tied for third on four over par.

Harrington, a three-time major winner, is bidding for his sixth success in his national championship.

"If I was on form, then I would rate four shots as a comfortable lead but it is not that comfortable on this course," said Harrington.

"I won't be taking anything for granted and while I didn't feel like I played well, I scored well and managed my game well.

"I hit enough shots to keep coming back. There were a few I hit well.

"Maybe my timing is just a bit off and that can change in 24 hours but I'm happy enough that the putter and the short game are strong."