Europe's Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley has urged his side to be wary of the USA team, who he said will be "highly motivated" following their defeat at Medinah in 2012.

McGinley was vice captain in 2012 when Europe came from 10-6 down to win and he does not think that the USA would let another lead slip for the 2014 tournament in Gleneagles.

"They're going to be very well led by Tom Watson and we know we're up against it," he told Sky Sports News. "They're like a wounded animal after what happened at Medinah and they will be a highly motivated team.

"But that's good, it's a real challenge to look forward to and it's what makes the Ryder Cup so special."

McGinley earlier on Thursday appointed Sam Torrance and Des Smyth as vice captains.