Darren Clarke was given a Ryder Cup boost at the Italian Open with solid showings by a number of his European stars.

The highlight for Clarke was the performance of Danny Willett, who was only beaten by the outstanding Molinari by one shot. It was the Englishman’s first top 10 finish since the BMW PGA Championship in May and the manner in which he did it will be especially pleasing. Willett had only one bogey in 72 holes, the kind of solid play you want from a player in matchplay en route to a 21-under-par total. An in-form Willett will strike fear in the Americans as the Masters champion.

Elsewhere, there were top 20 finishes for Rafa Cabrera-Bello, Martin Kaymer, Andy Sullivan and Matthew Fitzpatrick at Golf Club Milano. One concern will be the missed cut of Lee Westwood, but the Englishman at least consoled himself by enjoying the riveting Dublin-Mayo All-Ireland final on Sunday.

Clarke may be lamenting the fact Francesco Molinari’s win came too late to figure for selection. A two-time Ryder Cup winner, the Italian could have brought class and experience to the team.