Faldo and McGinley deflect rift talk

Ryder Cup captain Nick Faldo and Paul McGinley both stated today that they did not want to say any more on the Irishman’s decision to resign as an assistant.

McGinley stood down yesterday with both of them putting the emphasis on his wish to concentrate on qualifying for next September’s match against the Americans.

That did not stop his resignation being linked to Faldo picking England’s Simon Dyson and Scot Marc Warren for this week’s Seve Trophy in Ireland and leaving out McGinley.

Further intrigue was added with a report that McGinley had been led to believe he would be given a wild card, but the Dubliner commented: “I don’t want to say anything and I certainly don’t want to get involved in a slanging match.

“I just want it to go away and get on with my playing.”

After the first day’s play at The Heritage west of Dublin, with a Britain and Ireland side devoid of any Irishmen losing 3-2 to Continental Europe, Faldo told a press conference: “I’m obviously aware of what’s going on in the media and in view of that I will not be talking about anything to do with the Ryder Cup.

“I want to concentrate on this out of respect for Seve (Continental captain Seve Ballesteros) and this event. I’ve got my head down and I’m thinking purely of this event.

“So are the players, so I would respect if we can do that.”

When asked about the report relating to McGinley’s possible inclusion in the team, Faldo added: “As I stated, I will not be talking about anything other than this week. No, this event, Seve’s event.

“I know where you’re going. Guys, let’s stick to this event and what we’re doing here.”

Faldo was also asked about his signalling to Colin Montgomerie to come down from the clubhouse balcony to join his team-mates as the final game reached the last green.

“He was in the warmth and we’re out there freezing,” said Faldo. “We’ll drag him out there tomorrow.”