The Masters champion Bubba Watson has jumped to the defence of Ian Poulter following comments the Englishman made ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Poulter was accused of unnecessarily inciting the home crowd during a press conference earlier in the week, stating that he wanted to "kill" the American team in Ryder Cup competition.

He said: "There's something about the Ryder Cup which kind of intrigues me.

"How can you be great mates with somebody, but boy, do you want to kill them in the Ryder Cup? The Ryder Cup means too much to us for it ever to lose that edge."

Those comments prompted some indignant responses from the American public, but Watson said that he understands what Poulter is talking about.

"I understand where Poults is coming from," explained Watson. "I love watching his passion. The guy is great for the game of golf.

"As a fan of golf, Ian Poulter is an amazing story. It's amazing to hear him talk about where he picked up range balls, how he worked in a pro shop, and now he's at the Ryder Cup.

"I respect him very much, and I love how passionate he is about winning it."

Watson is playing in his second Ryder Cup.