Poulter backs Clarke for captaincy

Ian Poulter has backed Darren Clarke to become Europe’s next Ryder Cup captain.

The decision on Paul McGinley’s successor at Hazeltine in 2016 will be made in January and Clarke is among the favourites for the job.

Poulter, who has played in the Ryder Cup five times with his fourth win coming at Gleneagles in September, believes Clarke would be a ‘worthy’ choice.

“There are lots of people that could potentially be the captain. When you look at the next one being in Hazeltine in America, it’s very much looking like Darren Clarke will be running as a strong favourite. He has got a great relationship with the players and he would be a very worthy captain.”

And Poulter admits that he would relish the role — but not in the immediate future.

He told BBC Sport: “Hopefully, I’ve got another 10 years in me before I ever get asked. If I was ever asked to be captain then yes, I’d love it.”