Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell have been kept apart in this morning's European Ryder Cup practice groups.

McIlroy went out alongside Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer, while McDowell partnered Henrik Stenson and Victor Dubuisson.

It is thought the Ulstermen may be kept apart in the fourballs, with a foursome partnership more likely, something McDowell would be in favour of.

"The pairings aren't obvious this week and the captain has a little bit of work to do Wednesday and Thursday in regards to putting those teams together. But I would really embrace the opportunity to play perhaps foursomes with Rory at some point this weekend. We're both up for it," said McDowell.