Olazabal likely to lead 'if healthy'

The Spaniard is the No 1 contender to succeed Colin Montgomerie as captain when Europe defend the trophy at Medinah, near Chicago.

The twice major winner and Ryder Cup legend was hired by an espresso company last week to be their on-course ambassador in South Wales.

"What a shocking misuse of ability and experience," was Montgomerie's response when news of Olazabal's role filtered back to the European locker room.

He was quickly drafted in by Montgomerie to become the Scot's fifth vice-captain as the weather forced the format to incorporate six matches in sessions instead of four.

Armed with a walkie-talkie, Olazabal walked the course to play his own small part as Europe ground out victory in a thrilling finale to the 38th Ryder Cup.

And yesterday he received the backing of the outgoing captain to step up and lead Europe's defence.

Olazabal has the respect of everyone on the European team and although he may appear to outsiders as a quiet man, he is notorious for being one of the loudest voices in the locker room, notably two years ago at Valhalla.

Darren Clarke yesterday said he wanted to play his way back onto the team leaving the way clear for Olazabal, for whom a long history of rheumatism would be the only question mark over his ability to assume the role.

"We have talked about it but there is just one issue and that is my health," said the 44-year-old, whose Ryder Cup career dates back to 1987 and is best remembered for the formidable partnership he forged with countryman Seve Ballesteros.

"I would love to do it, but you have to fulfil certain things.

"You need to be close to the players and play with them during the qualifying process, that is why (health) is the only question mark."

Montgomerie, who left Celtic Manor yesterday having joined his players and the American team in a celebration party, said: "(Jose) watched what was done this time, he has notes over his playing career the same as mine – we both played eight Ryder Cups, a lot of them together – he has a lot of experience, as much as I have, and I am sure he will do as good, if not a better job than I did."

The enormity of the achievement in winning back the Cup over a draining four days was only just beginning to sink in for Montgomerie as he headed home to Scotland.

His planning over the last two years has been meticulous and his support of the players from the moment he was named captain unwavering.

"I realised as the week progressed what a responsibility it was," said Montgomerie. "I had set myself up here for a very big fall.

"I had accepted the Ryder Cup captaincy after a reasonable playing record, and all I would have been remembered for would be as a losing Ryder Cup captain, as opposed to having the record I had.

"That's the way it goes, and I feel sorry for Corey (Pavin) if he is criticised in any way.

"He doesn't deserve it. His American team played for him with as much passion and heart that mine played for me."

Hunter Mahan was still coming to terms yesterday with his unwitting role in Europe's victory in the final singles match.

"The Ryder Cup brings stuff out of you that you don't know you had from an emotional sense and from a golf sense," said the 28-year-old American, whose challenge of Graeme McDowell was far greater than the duffed chip it will be remembered for.

"I don't think people give us credit for how much we actually care about it and I think we are starting to realise how special it is. The Ryder Cup gives you moments like that and whatever happens, happens. I know that it will make me a better player."