GOLF: DAVID Howell is ready to play a major role' in September's Ryder Cup while European skipper Ian Woosnam is also expecting a big contribution.

The Swindon golfer, claimed his biggest scalp so far, winning the BMW Championship at Wentworth on Sunday, and breaking into the world top 10 for the first time.

The European Order of Merit leader made his Ryder Cup debut two years ago, scoring a point to help Europe to a record-breaking nine points victory at Oakland Hills, but he admits with success comes added responsibility.

Howell has already confirmed his place in Ian Woosnam's squad for the K Club in Ireland and after his biggest pay-day of his life at Wentworth, he knows the pressure will be on.

He said: "I hope to be in a position where I am playing well enough to be able to be a major player in Ireland.

"It would be great to play a bigger role than I did last time.

"I assumed a dominant role in the last Seve Trophy for the first time, where I was seen as one of the main players and expected to win points.

"I coped fairly well with it all and after the progress I have made I hope to be playing well going into the Ryder Cup. I'd love to be the first name on the team sheet Friday morning and get that first point for Europe.

"Last time I was in awe of players like Darren Clark, Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia and what a role they played. To come away with three of four points was unbelievable and I would love to do that."

Meanwhile Woosnam hailed Howell's Wentworth wizardry and admitted he could be an important player come September.

He said: "David is playing well at the moment and long may that continue.

"I am happy with the way the team is taking shape and the more players going into it in form the better."