Lee Westwood backs Darren Clarke to lead Europe at Gleneagles
39th Ryder Cup is done and dusted. Europe staged a historical comeback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. However, now all the eyes are curious as to who will lead Team Europe at the 40th Ryder Cup, in Gleneagles.
Paul McGinley, at the moment, is the leading contender for that elusive spot but Darren Clarke is also in the running.
McGinley has a very strong case. He has been a successful Ryder Cupper himself in 2002, 2004 and 2006. He has also been a vice captain for the European Ryder Cup team but he has never won a major title.
With all due respect, Darren makes a better case than Paul. The Northern Irishman has won titles in different continents and more than that, he is a major winner now.
In 2006, Clarke was very influential in the Europeans’ success at the Ryder Cup. He played a key part in the event, even though he had suffered the loss of his wife just a month ago.
Darren also enjoys the support of many current players, including the likes of Lee Westwood. Westwood has come out and openly supported Clarke for the captaincy.
“If I were asked to pick, it would be Darren Clarke,” said Westwood. “He has been a Ryder Cup stalwart for many years. The one at the K Club in 2006 will be remembered for him, his great performance under the stress of what he was going through at the time”.
Darren has also been approached by members of the European Tour. This clearly shows the intent of higher-ups. Clarke is also a very sound tactician, which is the most important aspect of a Ryder Cup skipper.
“He is a major champion, tactically he is very astute. I think he has a lot going for him”.
Initially, Clarke did not to captain at Gleneagles, because he has some reservations about the course. However, the course has been revamped a little and Clarke is clearly happy with it.
“If I was asked to captain Europe in two years I definitely could not say 'no’,” said Clarke. Rory McIlroy also said that his popularity in America would make him a possible option for the 2016 Ryder Cup team.
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