Captain Darren Clarke is looking for some inspiration from compatriot Rory McIlroy as Europe go in search of an unprecedented fourth successive Ryder Cup victory.
The world number three capped an impressive month with his second win in three weeks at the PGA Tour season-ending Tour championship on Sunday.
It was a timely boost for the European team, many of who watched the play-off together in their Heathrow hotel hours before flying out to the United States.
“He’s a wonderful young man and an unbelievable golfer, so he’s a hugely inspirational figure for our team and I feel very lucky he’s on our side,” said fellow Northern Irishman Clarke.
“To see Rory showing that spirit and playing the way in which he did was wonderful.
“The players who travelled over were all there with all the caddies down in the bar in the hotel watching it on the big screen.
“Everybody was delighted and excited. Any time we see one of our members play well and win a tournament is very good.”
