Former Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance has added his voice to the dissenters who have criticised Nick Faldo for selecting Ian Poulter over Darren Clarke for this month’s clash against the USA.

FORMER Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher believes Nick Faldo’s decision to select Ian Poulter for next month’s match against the United States may adversely affect morale in Europe’s team.

Former Ryder Cup skipper Sam Torrance has backed Paul McGinley’s decision to give up the vice-captaincy for next year’s event and claims it was an “absolutely horrific” decision by Nick Faldo to offer the role so early.

Two-time major winner Sandy Lyle has staked his claim to be Ryder Cup captain in 2010.

AN UNUSUALLY high number of Europeans, 22, will compete in the 84th US PGA Championship, the last of the season’s four majors, at Hazeltine National Golf Club, Chaska, Minnesota, beginning on August 15.