Worrying form for our Ryder Cup stars

THE magnificent exploits of Lee Westwood apart, the Masters provided little cheer for European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie.

Recently he claimed to be delighted “with the way things are progressing”. “Any Ryder Cup team must possess a crucial blend of experience and talented youth and we have both of those elements near the top of the rankings at the moment,” said Montgomerie.

“The reason for this surge of talent is simple; standards are rising due to increased competition among the players. All the guys currently in the automatic qualification spots and those just on the fringes are battling week after week to prove how much they want to play in the Ryder Cup. By their outstanding play and each wanting to outdo each other’s achievements, they are bringing out the best in each other and, as captain, that is exactly what I want to see.”