EXCLUSIVE! Eurosport catches up with Ian Poulter in Torrey Pines, where he hopes to become the first Englishman to win a Major since Nick Faldo in 1996. We will have live scoring and commentary from 3pm.

Does your routine differ greatly when playing a Major, as opposed to a regular Tour event?

My routine doesn't change at all for a Major, I try to treat it as a normal tour event because there is enough hype and pressure around the week without putting any extra pressure on your shoulders.

US Open courses are notoriously difficult. Do you think a challenging layout, with narrow fairways and thick rough, will suit your accurate iron play and give you an advantage?

I have always played well on difficult golf courses and US Open golf is certainly difficult. I think my consistency has been a factor in playing well on hard golf courses.

Do the European players stick tightly together when you're in the US, or is it a veritable cultural melting pot? Is it too early for any Ryder Cup banter?

The European guys do tend to socialise when we are in the same town, which is nice. We dine together in small groups and have plenty of banter all round. The Ryder Cup banter hasn't got going yet, it's a little too early for that to start, the team hasn't quite formed as yet.

How do the US crowds differ to those you play in front of on the European Tour?

The difference between the spectators in the US and the spectators in Europe are that the crowds in the US are a lot larger and this gives a much greater atmosphere to play in which is nice. The downside to that is that sometimes they are a little rowdy and they are prone to loud outbursts at any time.

Would winning at Torrey Pines go some way to hushing those who continue to say your confidence is unfounded?

I think if I'm able to hoist the trophy this weekend I will be most happy in myself being able to achieve a piece of history in such a unique select group. I don't need to hush anyone, it would be such a great feeling for my family and close friends to share the joy. The doubters I don't really lose any sleep over.

If you're up there on your final day and paired with Tiger, would you wear red? And do you think you can take him?

I have already chosen my outfit for Sunday and no, it's not red - we haven't used red for our spring/summer collection at Ian Poulter Design. If I play to my potential I have a chance to beat anyone, it might not be Tiger. I just believe in my ability.

Ian Poulter is pictured wearing clothing from his Ian Poulter Design range - now sold in over 17 countries - details of which can be found at www.ianpoulterdesign.com

Will Tidey / Eurosport