When Colin Montgomerie stood up to play his second shot to the 18th green at Valderrama, I felt for him. It was all about pressure. The shot was straightforward enough. He was on the fairway and with his opponent in trouble, all he needed to do was to find the green.

It reminded me of that shot I played at the Belfry eight years ago. The relief as it soared through the air heading straight for the green was something I will never forget.

I know Colin felt the same. It's hard to describe the pressure of the Ryder Cup. But it certainly shows on the faces of even the most experienced players like Olazabal, Montgomerie, Langer, Woosnam and Faldo.

I was in Valderrama. I saw it for myself. Those guys were drained at the end. On reflection, I feel Seve should have used his top players more sparingly. I know we won and it's hard to criticise a winning performance. But I think he asked too much of some players and not enough of others.

I thought he could have played Per-Ulrik Johansson more. He was young, fit and playing brilliantly. I can't understand why he rested him.

The Americans looked a lot fresher in the singles mainly because Tom Kite used all his players. I know they got crucial breaks at important times. They got vital putts and chipped in from off the green.

But in these situations you have to respond with more of the same. I told Darren Clarke before he played that he must never give up. Or more importantly, never be seen to let his confidence drop. Your opponent can spot any weakness. No matter what, you should never give up and never let the opposition see your confidence may be dipping.

The atmosphere was electric in Valderrama. It seemed everywhere I turned I saw a group of Irish. They are tremendous supporters of golf and it made me so proud to be Irish in Valderrama. It's only right that Ireland should host this great event. I understand I have been mentioned as a possible captain for that occasion. Would I want it? Would I what! I would just love to be given that honour.

I think it would be a huge benefit to have an Irish captain in Ireland. It worked so well in Spain. Just think of the support we would have. Of course there would be pressure. But I could live with that if I was named captain.

(In an interview with Michael Carwood)