• Ryder Cup

Poulter hails Olazabal appointment

Ian Poulter was a key figure in Europe's win at Celtic Manor © Getty Images

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Ian Poulter has described the appointment of Jose Maria Olazabal as Europe's Ryder Cup captain as "awesome".

Olazabal was the overwhelming favourite to succeed Colin Montgomerie for the defence of the title at Medinah in 2012 and his succession was confirmed on Tuesday. The move has been widely acclaimed, on both sides of the Atlantic, and Poulter - who has a fine record in the biennial event - is relishing the prospect of playing for the Spaniard.

"I think it is awesome," Poulter told Sky Sports. "I think if you cut him in half it will say Ryder Cup. The passion he has put into the Ryder Cup over the years, when he has played with Seve [Ballesteros], outweighs anybody else. I think every player that has got the potential to make that side is going to be pretty excited."

Paul Casey missed out on the Celtic Manor victory, but is looking forward to pressing for a spot in 2012. He said: "He is going to be great, he is going to be passionate; he is probably the most respected and most loved of the players. He is going to be a great captain."

United States regular Phil Mickelson claims the American team are thrilled by the appointment of Olazabal.

"I don't think you will find a nicer person on tour," Mickelson said of Olazabal. "I have spent some great times with him down the years. He is a great player but you will not find a higher-quality individual.

"I think everyone is excited about him being the Ryder Cup captain. The US players are excited to see him as captain as he is a class act and a credit to the game."

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