Bob MacIntyre on Ryder Cup spying mission as he names the special request issued to Team Europe chiefs

Bob MacIntyre will be wide awake and flying at The Ryder Cup after European team chiefs sorted out his special bed request. And the Scottish star joked he may have some more treats to order once he gets to Rome.

MacIntyre and his 11 European team-mates arrived into Wentworth for the BMW PGA Championship fresh from a vital scouting trip to Italy. Luke Donald’s dozen gladiators for Rome converged on Marco Simone Golf Club to set fresh eyes on the course ahead of the clash with the United States in 16 days time. MacIntyre was happy to see a tough track and an even harder bed as he prepares for his debut against Zach Johnson’s men.

The Oban ace was forced to withdraw from title defence of the DS Automobiles Italian Open title before the start of the second round four months ago after suffering a back issue. MacIntyre has learned to manage the situation and, with captain Luke Donald and the backroom team across every aspect of preparation, the 27-year-old now knows he’ll be sleeping soundly ahead of the 44th showdown with the States.

Reflecting on the whistle-stop trip, he explained: “It was nice. The most positive thing is that they have listened to my request and that is a firm bed. They changed the mattress which was spot on.

“Obviously, the pull-out there [Italian Open], I thought that might harm my chances, so it’s always good to return. Since that day, I have had some problems with the back. Obviously, there are different beds when you travel.

“But you know how to work it now. There are little tips that you get given, so, when the mistake is made, you try not to make it again. It’s a massive part of what we do. You are travelling the world 25 or 30 weeks a year and you need to be comfortable with whatever bed that you