Dwain Chambers believes winning European gold has given him the confidence he needs to regularly challenge world and Olympic champion Maurice Greene.

The 24-year-old lowered his personal best to 9.96 seconds to win the sprint title in Munich on Wednesday, answering critics of his performance at the Commonwealth Games.

He has now set his sights on cementing his place as one of the world's best sprinters by beating Linford Christie's British record and giving Greene some serious competition.

Chambers beat the world record holder twice earlier this season but since then the American has moved up a gear and has warned his rivals that he is back to his best.

Greene signalled his return to form by recording the fastest time of the season as he won the Rome Golden League meeting in July in a time of 9.89 seconds.

"I am looking forward to the head-to-head with Maurice," said Chambers.

"It is going to be a case of great expectations after my run here. It has really helped my confidence - especially to get the win, the record and a personal best."

Chambers and Greene are due to meet in what will be a much-anticipated clash at the Golden League meeting in Zurich on 16 August and again at the Norwich Union Grand Prix in London on 23 August.

'Utmost respect'

Christie's British record of 9.87 seconds has stood since 1993 when the Olympic champion won the world title.

"Linford and I have got the utmost respect for each other but he has had his opportunity, now it is my time," said Chambers.

"Linford's British record is out there now, but records are there to be broken. It is titles and championships that I want.

"The time of 9.96 is a stepping stone for me I believe. I want to go quicker now, I know I can still improve."