Colin Montgomerie hopes Robert MacIntyre feels “he belongs” on the major stage after finishing with a share of eighth place in the US PGA Championship.

Oban’s MacIntyre, 27, eagled the 18th hole for a closing round of 70 on 13 under par – eight strokes adrift of winner Xander Schauffele.

Eight-time European order of merit winner Montgomerie believes Scottish compatriot MacIntyre has the game to be a success in America – but patience will be a major key.

“There is one thing that Bob MacIntyre does really well in that he putts well,” said Montgomerie. “He holes out extremely well. That last week was good for him. To be in contention. Well done him.

“Let’s hope that his performance in this particular major gives him a real boost and feel that he belongs.

“His record in the Open is good and I think this will give him a huge confidence boost to go forward now in America and go and contend to win.”

MacIntyre is still waiting for his first win since joining the PGA Tour earlier this year.

“If he could win in America it would be super for him and give him a huge boost in confidence,” said Montgomerie.

“The competition increases every year. Yes, the Woods and Mickleson era is away but it’s been taken over by the McIlroys, the Shefflers – that new breed has come through.

“It is difficult to win. It’s difficult living away from home. I was at boarding school and had four years away from home so it wasn’t new to me to be away from home. I think it has been difficult for Bob to adjust to American life. It’s not easy.

“You are treated a wee bit of a foreigner. They used to call us ‘aliens’ when you went to passport control. That’s the key thing. You have to feel you belong. In the early part of the season that wasn’t happening and from now on let’s hope he does.”