Clarke has not played since the second round of the Open

The European wildcard pick, 39, has not played competitively since 21 July, and his only warm-up for next week's event is this week's Madrid Masters.

"My game is fine and I'll be ready for the Ryder Cup," Clarke said.

"It will be emotional but I wouldn't have played if I thought I couldn't have benefited the team."

News conference: Darren Clarke

Clarke was picked by European skipper Ian Woosnam earlier this month after making himself available for selection for the clash against America at the K Club on 22-24 September.

He said the decision to play was "tough" but added: "I would have missed it if I didn't think I could contribute.

"There was also the fact that I have played reasonably well in Ryder Cups in the past, the fact that it's in Ireland and it's matchplay.

"Matchplay was a huge reason for me playing. I have just enjoyed every one and I plan to enjoy this one too.

I had to do a bit of thinking and I wasn't going to come to any rash decision when Heather passed away Darren Clarke

"I know Heather would have wanted me to play so I made myself available.

"I am stronger altogether. I've had to face up to a lot of tough things. I hope I've come through it a better person."

As Clarke had taken so much time out to care for Heather, the Northern Irishman had no chance of qualifying automatically.

And he was grateful to have been given the time to make his decision to play.

"It was pretty obvious from early in the season that if I was going to play I was going to have to be a pick," said Clarke.

"I was trying to play as well as I could on the few occasions that I did, so I could show Ian Woosnam that I was playing well; which I did on a few occasions.

"Thankfully he has given me an opportunity to come and join the team and play.

"I had to do a bit of thinking and I wasn't going to come to any rash decision when Heather passed away."

Clarke, who will be paired with Thomas Bjorn and Miguel Angel Jimenez for the first two rounds, maintains he is not in Spain this weekend to go through the motions.

"I am not here to make up the numbers, that is for sure. I am not here just to pitch up and play," he said.

"I wanted to come back and play some competitive golf before I stepped on the tee in the Ryder Cup."