• Ryder Cup

This is a redemption trip - Watson

American captain Tom Watson described his side's Ryder Cup campaign as a "redemption trip" and has targeted both Rory McIlroy and Ian Poulter as Europe's danger men at Gleneagles.

Several of Watson's players were on the losing American side in 2012, dubbed the "Miracle of Medinah", when Europe rallied to recover from a 10-6 deficit and earn a remarkable 141/2- 131/2 victory on the final day.

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"This trip is a redemption trip," Watson said. "Many of those players who lost at Medinah two years ago are on this team and it is time to make amends. It is a motivation rather than a negative.

"I know that our team is going to be totally focussed on bringing the Cup back and I am setting the stage for that.

"You look at the European team and see Rory McIlory and Justin Rose and you see they are loaded with quality. But when the matches start on Friday morning there is going to be some quality play going on."

Colin Montgomerie, who captained Europe to victory at Celtic Manor four years ago, stated the American players will target McIlroy much like the Europeans did with Tiger Woods.

Watson said seeing his players defeat the world No.1 would be a massive boost but the 65-year-old also believes Poulter - whose birdie putt on the 16th and iconic roar inspired Europe's comeback at Medinah two years ago - will also be pinpointed.

He said: "When you beat the stud on the other side it gives a boost to your team. But the bottom line is that if each of your players wins more than they lose, we win as a team. That is what I have told our team.

"Right now we have got a lot of players to look at on the European team and Ian Poulter with his record of 80% victory over the series of matches is certainly one. We would like to reduce that."

Watson, described as the American's "best shot" at victory by Bernard Gallacher, has also been impressed by Rickie Fowler's decision to get a USA-themed haircut: "I like it! It brings a spirit to the team."

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