Montgomerie's Carton House course opened in August 2003

The Irish Open is being staged at Carton House near Dublin, which Montgomerie admits "can be scary in some weather conditions".

"I've 155 potential critics," said the 41-year-old Scot.

"But it has been ranked the number one new course in Europe so double bogeys aren't my fault."

The inland links-style layout only opened in 2003 but looks a stern test for the cream of European golf.

"I've been consulted about the set-up and we're going to have to be very careful about the tee and pin positions," he added.

"It's one of the best courses I've ever played - and it's got my name attached to it, so this is a very proud moment for me.

"And it's a perfect reward for my whole team, who have worked tirelessly to create such a fabulous test.

"It perfectly matches my aims of designing a unique championship inland links.

"I'm so flattered it's been chosen to host this event and it's come very quickly."

Montgomerie admitted that whenever he designs a course - he has a dozen in play around the world now and another 10 at various stages of either contract or construction - he has his own game in mind.

"I think it's inevitable that you tend to think that way," said the world number 54, who also will be lining up in Ireland this week.

Montgomerie is aiming to get back inside the world's top 50 after next week's BMW Championship at Wentworth to qualify automatically for the US Open.