Problems mount for Monty

Just when it seemed everything – the woeful form of Tiger Woods included – was pointing to Europe winning back the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in October, nobody can be quite so sure any more.

Lee Westwood is injured, Henrik Stenson and now Ian Poulter sick, captain Colin Montgomerie has personal troubles and there is the real possibility one of four more stars – Padraig Harrington, Justin Rose, Luke Donald and Paul Casey – might have to be omitted.