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Europe unable to reach Ryder Cup captain decision

Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Michael Weston
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Ian Woosnam is in the running to captain Europe for the 2010 Ryder Cup contest at Celtic Manor

The European Ryder Cup captain will not be named until 29 January, after the Tour’s 15-man committee was unable to reach a decision on Tuesday.

Following a four-hour discussion in Abu Dhabi, it was decided that they’d reconvene on 28 January with a view to naming the captain the following day.

And despite an unsuccessful Royal Trophy contest against Asia last week, Jose Maria Olazabal is one of the favourites for the role.

"There are things we will all keep in mind if I become captain of the Ryder Cup," said Olazabal.

"It's up to the players to say how good a captain I was. I'll talk to them and see how I can improve."

The United States have already named Corey Pavin as their new skipper, so the pressure is on Europe to name the right man, and Sam Torrance believes Ian Woosnam should be given the role.
"I don't think anybody can bring the Welsh support like Ian could,” said Torrance.

Woosnam captained Europe to victory in 2006 in Ireland, but will also face competition from Sandy Lyle.

Tony Jacklin, who captained Europe to Ryder Cup victory in 1985, said: "He's obviously in there as a candidate, but ultimately the decision rests with the committee and I'm sure they'll put their heads together and make the correct decision."

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