Francesco Molinari has claimed that Rory McIlroy's recent form has improved the European Ryder Cup team's spirit ahead of September's clash with the Americans.

McIlroy has recorded three victories in the past five weeks and Molinari believes that his teammates will be spurred on by the Northern Irishman's performances.

The Italian said: "Rory has been amazing and it's really good for the team spirit. The Americans had a really good early season and summer, so it's important to show everyone that the Europeans are ready."

However, Molinari believes that this week's Italian Open will provide the perfect opportunity to continue his own preparations for Medinah.

"Obviously with the Ryder Cup in two weeks everything is getting very exciting," he added. "I hope it's going to be good preparation for Chicago."

Molinari will play alongside European teammates Nicolas Colsaerts and Martin Kaymer for the first two rounds in Turin, beginning on Thursday.