Westwood return on hold

Lee Westwood’s hopes of taking part the Ryder Cup remain in doubt after his agent confirmed he has still not recovered from a serious bout of tonsillitis contracted nine days ago.

Westwood, 35, was hit by the virus while playing in Gleneagles at the end of August and was forced to miss last week’s European Masters.

A week ago Westwood’s agent – Chubby Chandler – described the illness as a “recurring problem” and was certain he would recover within “three of four days”.

Chandler confirmed that Westwood was “not feeling 100%” and would not be taking part in the Mercedes-Benz Championship which starts in Cologne on Thursday but remains hopeful of being involved at Valhalla.

“Lee is slowly recovering from this illness and we are sure it will not affect his chances of taking part in the Ryder Cup,” Chandler told The Guardian.

“There is no concern from him or us on that regard.”