Ferguson's inspirational speech to Europe's Ryder Cup team moves McIlroy

Northern Irish golf ace Rory McIlroy has been moved by the inspirational speech delivered by coaching icon and Manchester United's former manager Sir Alex Ferguson to Europe's Ryder Cup team.

McIlroy, who is a United fan, confessed that for him it was the highlight of the week so far, adding that he was just sitting there and looking at Ferguson.

McIlroy said that he did not take his eyes off Ferguson, and added that he was sort of in this trance just listening to everything that the former United boss was saying and thinking this is all the stuff that he's probably said to his teams over the years, The Independent reported.

The Northern Irishman said that it was a really cool thing to be a part of.

McIlroy also said that Ferguson told them to enjoy being favourites and use that to fire the team. He said that United were obviously favourites and, whenever Ferguson was managing, they made Old Trafford a bit of a fortress.

The world number one added that when teams went to Old Trafford, it was very hard to compete against United. He said that Ferguson was just talking a bit about that to the European team.

McIlroy said that Europe are slight favourites for a reason, adding that they deserve to be, as they have played well this year. He also said that it is not something that Europe should shy away from, adding that it is something they should embrace.