Rory McIlroy has played in just one Ryder Cup but already the double Major winning Northern Irishman is ready to take over the on course Ryder Cup reins at Medinah.

McIlroy, 23 was a raw rookie two years ago in the extreme heat of battle at Celtic Manor but he’s ready to step forward later next month at Medinah and tackle the Americans head on at the  Medinah Country Club outside Chicago from September 28-30.

Rory McIlroy a rookie at 2010 Ryder Cup but now looking to be a leader in 2012.

“I know there are a lot of older guys than me that are going to be on the European team, but I feel like I’m in a position where I’d be one of the leaders of that team and if I feel strongly about something, I’ll voice that,” McIlroy said ahead of this week’s Deutsche Bank Championship, the second of the PGA Tour’s four lucrative FedExCup playoff events.

McIlroy captured his second major title when he cruised to a record eight-shot win at the PGA Championship earlier this month at Kiawah Island and is now four years younger than Germany’s Martin Kaymer, the next youngest member of the 12-man European team.

But that will not keep McIlroy from letting European captain Jose Maria Olazabal know his preferences for playing partners, order of play or strategy.

“I think the big thing about the Ryder Cup is you have to be a good team member,” said McIlroy.

“You can’t be afraid to voice your opinion. If you really feel strongly about something in the team room, you’ve got to stand up and speak.”

McIlroy revealed that before he gets to the Windy City he hopes to again show his double Major winning class in the FedExCup playoffs at this week’s Deutsche Bank Championship, which begins on Friday, confident he can excel on a course that is considered a long-bomber’s paradise.

He is already guaranteed a place in the remaining playoff events, including the season ending Tour Championship in Atlanta where the overall points winner pockets a $10 million bonus.

Of course, McIlroy is determined to remain inside the FedEx Cup top-five heading to the Tour Championship in Atlanta and an East Lake he feels could play right into his hands.

“It’s a good course for the long hitters,” said McIlroy.

“You’ve got to take advantage of the par‑fives around here. The scoring is usually pretty good.

“I feel like I’m playing well enough, I’m driving the ball well and giving myself enough chances, so if I can get the putter to cooperate a little bit better than it did last week, then hopefully I’ll have a good chance.”