Montgomerie named European Ryder Cup captain

Colin Montgomerie was appointed 2010 Ryder Cup captain by the European Tour's tournament committee yesterday.

The eight-times European number one replaces Nick Faldo, who was in charge for last year's 16 1/2-11 1/2 defeat by United States in Valhalla, Kentucky.

"I am proud and honoured to be selected as captain," Montgomerie told a news conference on the eve of the Dubai Desert Classic.

"This is one of the most proud moments I can think of. It is a huge responsibility having lost the last one and it is important we do everything we can to claim it back. I'll do everything I can to reclaim the Ryder Cup."

Although he failed to qualify for the biennial match in 2008, the 45-year-old Montgomerie has a wealth of Ryder Cup experience.

In 2006 the burly Briton became the second European after Bernhard Langer to play in five winning teams. He was also unbeaten in eight singles matches after making his debut in 1991.

Montgomerie (23 1/2) is third on the list of Europe's leading points scorers but his appointment as skipper appears to have ended his hopes of breaking Faldo's record haul of 25.

"I feel the time is right for me to take the helm," said the Scot, who added that he had no intention of serving as a playing captain.

Asked if his decision to take charge at the Celtic Manor resort in Wales next year would signal the end of his Ryder Cup playing career, he said: "This may well have been (my last chance) but my aim now is to play in 2012 in Illinois."

Montgomerie will be up against United States captain Corey Pavin when the 2010 Ryder Cup is played from October 1-3.