Rory McIlroy makes a comment about Patrick Reed after shooting 67 on day two at the BMW PGA

Rory McIlroy and Patrick Reed experienced polar opposite rounds on Friday at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.

McIlroy posted a superb second round of 67 on Friday, and he heads into the weekend just four strokes adrift of the leader, Ryan Gerard.

Meanwhile, Reed was forced to withdraw from the BMW PGA due to injury after just nine holes of his second round.

This week could be crucial in the Race to Dubai standings, with Patrick Reed currently leading Rory McIlroy by just over 900 points.

The battle between McIlroy and Reed promises to be an enthralling one, especially after the huge swing that could take place this week at the BMW PGA Championship .

Rory McIlroy comments on Patrick Reed after shooting 67 at the BMW PGA

After shooting a second-round 67 on Friday, McIlroy was asked whether he is extra motivated to win the Race to Dubai this year with Reed currently leading him in the standings.

" Yeah, look, I'm motivated regardless of who it is, " the Northern Irishman admitted.

" Obviously Patrick and I have had quite the battles over years, whether it be Ryder Cup, final round in a major. Dubai Desert Classic a few years ago. He's a great competitor and he's played great all year.

" I respect him for how he's gone about it, and coming through here, he's put his head down and done the work, and it has actually been really good to see.

" Unfortunately he's pulled out this week, which gives me an opportunity to try to claw back some ground that I lost last week in Ireland.

" This weekend is a big weekend for me to pick up a few points and make the race even tighter going into these last few weeks. "

Rory McIlroy delivers verdict on his game after two rounds at Wentworth

The six-time major winner was asked how he feels about his game heading into the weekend at Wentworth.

" I think I'm in a great spot heading into the weekend. Playing a bit better today than I did yesterday. I hit a lot more fairways. Felt like I drove the ball better.

" Gave myself a few more chances. Didn't feel like I was scrambling my way around most of the day today.

" Solid round and I'm in a good spot heading into the last two days. "

Rory McIlroy will be confident in his chances of winning the BMW PGA Championship for the second time in his career this week, but he will be well aware that they need to play some very good golf in order to make that happen.