Paul McGinley expects a "buoyant and energised" Rory McIlroy to take the Ryder Cup by storm next week.
The world number three has had an inconsistent year but former European captain McGinley said the Northern Irishman's win at this month's Deutsche Bank Championship was a big boost for the European team.
Now, he's predicting the Holywood's star to shine at Hazeltine.
"He [McIlroy] is Europe's highest-ranked player and we all know how talented he is," the 49-year-old Dubliner said.
"Apart from winning the Irish Open, he's had a quiet year particularly on the PGA Tour and in the major championships.
"But he addressed the problems he was having with his putting, hired a new coach and that was validated with his win in Boston.
"It has given him a lot of confidence and I think we'll see a buoyant and energised Rory McIlroy at the Ryder Cup."
McGinley also expects the six rookies in this year's team to draw on their international experience to thrive under pressure against the United States.
US Masters champion Danny Willett, Chris Wood, Rafael Cabrera-Bello, Andy Sullivan and Matt Fitzpatrick, along with wildcard pick Thomas Pieters [above], will be making their Ryder Cup debuts when Europe defend the trophy in Minnesota.
"The European team have six rookies heading to Hazeltine, but I don't think that will be an issue or a concern," McGinley, who led Europe to victory two years ago, told Sky Sports.
"They are all experienced players, they've all won big tournaments, and they have all performed on the big stage... They are young, vibrant and they will not be intimidated by the atmosphere of a Ryder Cup in the United States."
Captain Darren Clarke will be looking to guide Europe to an unprecedented fourth consecutive Ryder Cup victory.
"They are part of a team and Darren will be making sure they don't lose their focus," McGinley said. "Don't play the occasion, play the game of golf."
