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Montgomerie warns McGinley about captaincy hopes

Will Paul McGinley be Europe's Ryder Cup captain © Getty Images

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Colin Montgomerie believes Tom Watson's appointment as United States captain for the Ryder Cup in 2014 should not affect who Europe appoint to the role.

Montgomerie, the victorious European leader at Celtic Manor in 2010, is aware that Watson - one of golf's all-time greats - will bring an extra stature and prestige to the American side.

But he hopes that will not affect the selection of Europe's opposite number, with Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke believed to be the frontrunners.

"Has it changed our view of who we should put up against him?" Montgomerie said of Watson's appointment. "It shouldn't because, irrespective of who the Americans have selected, we should be selecting the best man for the job.

"Surely that shouldn't change. We can't suddenly say he's no good because of what America have done. I think it will put a wee bit extra pressure on our captain, especially in all the stuff that leads up to the Ryder Cup, the year to go celebrations etc.

"Tom Watson's stature is second to none and we certainly need someone who can liaise with people, speak to them etc. They also can't be intimidated by Tom. But all that goes down to the best man for the job, whoever that might be."

Montgomerie revealed that a vote will be employed to choose the next Ryder Cup captain, hinting that McGinley - a valued assistant at the last two Ryder Cups - is not guaranteed to be elevated to the top job.

"For the first time, there is going to be a committee vote between two candidates and that will start off in Abu Dhabi next month," Montgomerie added. "Paul was very good at the Seve Trophy. He was also very good as a backroom member at the Ryder Cup. He was very good with me and I believe he was very good with [Jose Maria] Olazabal [in 2012].

"But, for me, it goes back to this best man for the job business. Just because it's your turn doesn't necessarily mean it will be you.

"There are certain people who are meant to be in charge of a team and some who are not."

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