Monty to lead Europe against Asia

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Colin Montgomerie is to get another taste of captaincy ahead of the Ryder Cup in Wales next year.

Colin Montgomerie is to have another taste of captaincy ahead of the Ryder Cup next year.
Seve Ballesteros was the original captain for the match, but is not fit enough for the position after collapsing with a brain tumour a year ago and Monty has been asked to take over from him when Europe meet Asia in the Royal Trophy in Thailand on January 8-10.
Jose Maria Olazabal took over from Seve in January 2009, but with the Ryder Cup coming up next September, it makes sense for Montgomerie to assume control.
Ballesteros, still receiving treatment, said: “It is best for the players to have complete certainty as to who will lead them in this great match against Asia and while my recovery has been very good I am not certain that I will be ready to give our team the 110% effort it deserves.
“The role of captain is complex, difficult and demanding and I sincerely thank Colin, my very good friend, for taking on this major responsibility.”
Montgomerie, currently competing in the Hong Kong Open, commented: “It will be an excellent opportunity for me to spend time with some key players who are likely to be with me at Celtic Manor in October.
“I am excited about being European captain as well as representing our continent as a player.”

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