Smyth wants Ryder Cup ‘wildcard’ for Harrington

Des Smyth believes Pádraig Harrington can consider himself ‘unlucky’ if not afforded a ‘wildcard’ pick for next month’s Ryder Cup at Medinah.

Smyth, who played 1979 and 1981 Ryder Cup, believes also a then out of form Harrington was ‘lucky’ to compete in the last Ryder Cup after getting a ‘wildcard’ from Colin Montgomerie.

It’s almost certain that unless Harrington excels in next week’s Barclays Championship in New York, and the final PGA Tour qualifying event for European-born players, then the triple Major champion will have to rely on a ‘wildcard’ pick. And his plight was not helped given Jose Maria Olazabal’s ice cold assessment last week at Kiawah Island of Harrington’s game.