Golf: Poulter aiming to reach top 15 with Italian Open defence

Ian Poulter begins the defence of his Italian Open title aiming to complete his transformation from tour rookie to established star.

Poulter clinched the Rookie of the Year crown by winning his maiden European Tour title in Sardinia 12 months ago, holding off a last-round charge from Gordon Brand Jnr for a one shot victory.

The 25-year-old from Hertfordshire has since added a second tour win in Morocco this year and was only pipped to the Scandinavian Masters in Sweden by an inspired Colin Montgomerie.

Missing the cut in three of his last four events, however, has seen Poulter slip down to 27th in the Order of Merit with a top 15 finish the aim to qualify for next year's major championships.

"My goals have changed from last year," said Poulter, who will partner Warren Bennett in England's World Cup team in Japan in a fortnight.

"I've gone from being a rookie to trying to get into the top 15 to qualify for the majors next year. Winning the rookie title opened a few doors and hopefully finishing in the top 15 will open a few more.

"I've dropped back seven places after the Dunhill Links (where he missed the cut) so I need two good weeks.

"I think my game is back in shape now. I spent four days away in Portugal last week working hard and I feel good. I was with my brother Danny, who is at stage two of the qualifying school next week and he is trying to get his game in shape for that."

While Poulter eyes defending his title and the top 15, this week also represents the last chance for players at the wrong end of the money list to earn enough money to move into the top 115 and retain a card for next season.

Among those fighting for their future are Scotland's Alastair Forsyth, whom Poulter ironically pipped for the Rookie of the Year title with his victory at Is Molas last year.