FOOTBALL legend Sir Alex Ferguson today played down his role in Europe's Ryder Cup win at Gleneagles.

The former Manchester United manager was drafted in to give Paul McGinley's team a pre-tournament pep talk.

Several of the players said later they were awestruck as the Scot talked tactics and strategy. And United fan Rory McIlroy admitted listening to the Scot had been one of the highlights of his life.

Fergie was back at the course yesterday and stood on the first tee watching all 12 singles matches get under way.

However, he dismissed suggestions that he had inspired Europe to their 16½-11½ triumph.

He said: "I just had a general chat with them all. To be honest, I think I got more out of it than they did. It was fantastic to be in their company. I was excited to be part of the occasion.

"Standing on the first tee today was special.

"The atmosphere was unbelievable. The camaraderie between both sets of players was great and the quality of golf they both displayed was incredible as well.

"But that is why they are in the Ryder Cup. They are the best golfers in Europe and the US. It was something special."