Colin Montgomerie will request extra Ryder Cup wildcard picks

Colin Montgomerie will request extra wildcard selections for next year’s Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in Wales as Europe look to regain the trophy on home soil.

Europe currently have two wildcard picks as has been the case in the last seven events, as opposed to America’s four at Valhalla in September, when Paul Azinger led his side to victory.

Montgomerie, 45, said: "I will put the case forward. I am one vote, but a more powerful one than I was, being the captain." Nick Faldo captained the European side for the 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla, a reign that started in controversial fashion when the six-time Major winner opted for Ian Poulter as one of his wildcard selections ahead of the much-fancied Darren Clarke.

Poulter went on to perform admirably, but America’s victory raised questions in Europe as to whether an equal number of wildcard selections would be beneficial.

Montgomerie added: "I will abide by the committee's decision but I think you'll find we'll go for one more captain's choice than we have in the past."

The Scot is due to face his rival skipper, Corey Pavin, in June at the Celtic Manor Wales Open as the countdown to the 2010 event on the Twenty Ten course hots up.  

Where next?

Golf blog: Golf Monthly at the Ballantine’s Championship Equipment review: Odyssey Black Series i 2-Ball putter review More Tour news: Colin Montgomerie and Corey Pavin set for Celtic Manor meeting Competitions: New golf competitions: Win a PowaKaddy Freeway II Lithium