Stephen Gallacher has claimed that he will be looking to enjoy the pressure of attempting to qualify for the European Ryder Cup team this week.

The 39-year-old will need to finish in the top two at the Italian Open to claim the final automatic spot in Paul McGinley's team, and he is relishing the challenge of reaching the competition for the first time.

"I am trying to prepare to win the same way I would any other week," Gallacher told reporters. "There are a few ways to handle the pressure I suppose, and I am going with the fact that it's an exciting position to be in and an exciting time.

"There are a lot of things on my mind and the most difficult thing for me this week is trying to focus just on the golf. If I play well and finish in the top two then I am a Ryder Cup player, and that is something that I have dreamt about my whole life."

Graeme McDowell is currently in possession of the final spot in the European team.