Mark Selby continued his fine reign of form to win this season’s first ranking title against Martin Gould.

The three-times world champion followed up his semi-final run at the Crucible in August with victory in the European Masters.

Selby came back from 5-4 and 6-5 behind to beat surprise finalist Martin Gould 9-8 in the final.

The win follows a resurgent return to form for the Leicester star who now has won 10 ranking event finals on the spin – edging closer to Stephen Hendry’s record of 11.

Mark Selby. Picture by Monique Limbos

Selby showed signs in last season’s World Championship that his top game was coming together when he reached the semi-finals only to lose out on a place in the world final due to a sensational comeback from Ronnie O’Sullivan.

But today Selby got the better of a final frame thriller to claim the title and the £80,000 top prize.

Victory further cements Selby’s place in the top four of the world rankings, closing in on third placed Neil Robertson.