Ryder Cup
Will Europe regain the Ryder Cup or can the USA team be victorious this time? Getty

Ryder Cup team captains Paul McGinley and Tom Watson have announced their pairings for the opening fourballs ahead of the opening day of competition at Gleneagles.

Masters champion Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson will open the proceedings against European duo Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson.

The pick of the draw arguably comes in round three where American debutants Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed square off against Europe's newcomer Stephen Gallacher and the man who inspired his team to victory in Medinah two years ago, Ian Poulter.

World number one Rory McIlroy and his partner Sergio Garcia conclude the opening session against Keegan Bradley and Phil Mickelson.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Europe team captain McGinley said: "We have got 12 strong players and I could have come up with many different combinations. Stephen Gallacher is out there with a guy in Ian Poulter who is going to enjoy the atmosphere that he will bring.

"I am more concerned with what we are doing rather than what the American pairings are to be honest. They are a strong team, make no mistake."

Watson, his American counterpart, said: "The fourballs are a good place for our three rookies to get their feet wet. They play every ball.

"You can't play all 12 guys, you have to sit four of them, and you can probably bet that Matt Kuchar and Jim Furyk will be playing in the afternoon.

"I have told my team, especially the rookies, that they cheer just as loud here as in United States. You have to expect them to cheer when you miss putts, it is all part of the contest, all part of going to the ball game.

Friday 26 September Morning Fourballs (BST)

07.35: Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson (USA) against Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson (Europe)

07.50: Rickie Fowler and Jimmy Walker (USA) against Thomas Bjorn and Martin Kaymer (Europe)

08.05: Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed (USA) against Stephen Gallacher and Ian Poulter (Europe)

08.20: Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley (USA) v Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia (Europe)

Ryder Cup