Irish golfer Graeme McDowell has returned home after finishing third place in the Australian Open last week.

McDowell, who played Australia after a month’s break, now has his sights set on the Ryder Cup, which is to take place in October.

McDowell is ready for the action.

“I’m fired up, no doubt about it,” McDowell told www.europeantour.com

“I’ve got a few days of practice lined up this coming week. Then it’s down to Celtic Manor on the Monday and it’s one of those weeks when you want to take your game with you to the Ryder Cup.



“It’s a busy week, it’s tough to go finding it somewhere, and I’m hoping to be a big part of the team.”


“The team is very impressive. You’ve just got to look at the wins and you’ve just got to look at the world rankings. It’s got to be one of the best European Ryder Cup teams ever assembled.



“One of my big goals this year was to be part of that and I’ve achieved that and I definitely want to go there and perform.”



McDowell sympathizes with the big names who missed out on selection to Montgomery’s team.


“There’s a couple of players who really deserve to make the team, Paul Casey and Justin Rose being two of those guys,” McDowell said.



“Unfortunately we just ran out of space this year. Guys played their way on to the team like Peter Hanson and Edoardo Molinari.”



Ahead of the clash with Corey Pavin’s team, McDowell backed European captain Montgomery to prove an inspiring leader.



“He’s going to be a great captain. He’s very meticulous with his preparation,” McDowell said.

“He wants us there nice and early on Monday and we’ll be very much ready come Friday.”