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Torrance unconcerned by Ryder Cup rookies

Sam Torrance admits he wouldn't have thought twice about picking Tiger Woods © Getty Images

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Former Europe Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance insists Colin Montgomerie's side will not be restricted by rookies at Celtic Manor.

Torrance skippered Europe to victory eight years ago, so he knows exactly what Montgomerie is going through just nine days out from the tournament. The 57-year-old is one of only two European Ryder Cup members, alongside Seve Ballesteros, to sink the winning putt as a player before going on to lift the trophy as a captain.

Montgomerie goes into the 2010 competition with six rookies in his squad, following his decision to leave Paul Casey and Justin Rose out of the 12-man team. The likes of Rory McIlroy and Ross Fisher have pressure on their shoulders, but Torrance is not worried.

"It looks great. Obviously [Colin] had a torrid time when it came to his wildcards, but that's just testament to how strong the European team is," Torrance told Sky Sports News. "He had to leave out a couple of key players and that would have been difficult for him.

"But you've got Ross Fisher, Martin Kaymer - who's a major winner, Rory McIlroy, these are top players. I don't think they'll be intimidated at all. I think it's a strong team."

Europe will be up against a USA team fronted by world No. 1 Tiger Woods following his wild-card pick from skipper Corey Pavin, but Woods' record is hardly one to be scared of in Ryder Cup competition. He has taken 11 from a possible 25 points in his career, but Torrance is adamant Woods was a no-brainer for Pavin.

"He's the best player in the world. He didn't play for six months this year and he still just failed to make the team. It's Tiger Woods, you have to have him in your team.

"When you play against Tiger Woods in the Ryder Cup, you've nothing to lose. You're expected to be beat by Tiger, so players often produce their best against him. Players produce surprises because they're expected to lose.

"I don't think Woods' record in the Ryder Cup is that bad; it's not as good as in other competitions, but it's still a good record. I'm sure it'll get better."

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