Goosen won by five shots at the K Club last year

The South African romped to a five-shot victory last year and admitted his success was a surprise even to him.

"I didn't think I was quite ready to play when I arrived here last year," said Goosen who had raced from America after winning his second US Open title.

"I'm now looking forward to defending the title over the Palmer Course."

That will be the same track that 2006 Ryder Cup will be played and Goosen is happy to play there.

"We have all got to know the Palmer Course really well over the years and it is a wonderful test of golf," he said.

Goosen had come close to capturing the European title on a number of times and it was a relief to finally come out on top despite his race across the Atlantic from Shinnecock Hills .

"Tuesday's practice round last year was the first time I had touched the clubs since the US Open," said Goosen who shared second place with Kiwi Michael Campbell in 2002.

"But once we got under way I felt competitive again and it was a great feeling to finally win this title after coming so close in the past."