Gleneagles, United Kingdom | AFP |
The 2014 Ryder Cup buildup talking points at Gleneagles
– Differing approaches to motivational input. Europe captain Paul McGinley chose the big name approach in football coach legend Alex Ferguson to make a speech to his team. US counterpart Tom Watson called in two soldiers wounded on duty in Iraq.
– Are world number one Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell still on the best of terms following a legal case involving the management company they both used? The Northern Irishmen say they are, others are not so sure. Signs are they will not be paired together on Friday
– Is redemption for the Miracle at Medinah two years ago, when Europe came from behind to win, the driving force behind the US team? Skipper Tom Watson says it is. Most of his players beg to differ.
– How boisterous will it be in the horsehoe-shaped grandstand built around the first tee? The cold, cloudy conditions forecast to greet the opening fourballs early Friday morning might dampen some of the enthusiasm.
– Can Ian Poulter once again bludgeon the Americans into submission like he did at Medinah? Tom Watson and a couple of the US players say the Englishman has a target on his back. Poulter says fire away.
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