McIlroy says he wouldn't revise his schedule to make the Ryder Cup team

Rory McIlroy has played down the importance of the Ryder Cup, dubbing the biennial match between Europe and the USA as an "exhibition".

McIlroy made the comments ahead of the start of the 3 Irish Open on Thursday when he will be partnered by Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie.

"It's not a huge goal of mine," said the Northern Irish youngster.

"It's an exhibition at the end of the day. In the big scheme of things it's not that important an event for me."

McIlroy also added that he would not revise his schedule at the end of a year-long qualifying race to chase Ryder Cup points.

"If I play well enough I play well enough. And if I don't, then so be it," added McIlroy.

606: DEBATE Shame on you Rory, coming out with that just before you accompany Monty for two rounds in the Irish Open Potty Trained

Asked for a response to McIlroy's comments, Montgomerie insisted that the contest "is not an exhibition and it never will be" but added that he would not get drawn into any war-of-words with the 20-year-old over the issue.

"It's a very unique, special event and much more nerve-wracking than a major," said the 45-year-old Scot.

"When you play in it you want to be there again and again."

"(But) Please don't say that Monty and Rory are having a war here. I haven't said that.

"Rory will understand when - and it's not an 'if' - he is a Ryder Cup player.

"He'll understand the pressures involved and the whole scenario of the Ryder Cup will hit him very hard.

"If he's qualified or necessitates a pick I would definitely speak to every player as to what to expect."

Despite his views at this stage McIlroy still expects to "relish every moment of it" should he play and adds: "Obviously I'll try my best for the team - but I'm not going to go running around fist-pumping."

Montgomerie declared himself perfectly happy with the decision by the players' committee on Tuesday night to grant him a third wild card.

Opposite number Corey Pavin will have one more than that, but Montgomerie said:"I got what I wanted. I'm just concerned about getting the strongest team and having one more option might just allow me to do that."

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