I STILL OWE YOU FOR MIRACLE

Justin is grateful to Euro captain Donald for wildcard pick but insists he must help deliver Europe victory

- CRAIG SWAN

 

JUSTIN ROSE has designs on becoming a future European captain.

But right now, it's payback time to current one Luke Donald for the pivotal role played in creating his greatest Ryder Cup moment.

Rose is the elder statesman of the home team in Rome and already eyeing the leadership position in years to come.

But the Englishman insists he's still got more to win as a player, with his next mission to ensure big mate Donald's captaincy is celebrated by success. With five Ryder Cups on his CV, the 43-year-old has been through some incredible moments.

Like all involved, nothing as yet has topped Medinah and the magical miracle back in 2012.

Rose's astounding efforts against Phil Mickelson... Paul Lawrie's chipin... Rory McIlroy's late arrival....

Martin Kaymer's winning putt.

Everyone has their own moment, yet Donald's often underplayed contribution to the turnaround was immense.

Leading out the singles, his win over Bubba Watson set the Sunday tone. But the real turnaround started the day before when Donald and Sergio Garcia gunned down Tiger Woods and Steve Stricker in the match before Ian Poulter went wild-eyed with his famous blitz.