Monty announces preferred vice captains for Ryder Cup

European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie has named Thomas Bjorn, Paul McGinley and Jose Maria Olazabal as his preferred vice captains for the big showdown at Celtic Manor in October.

"The Americans are having four vice captains. I shall have three, maybe four," Montgomerie said.

Montgomerie added: "I will not be naming them until after the Open at St. Andrews in July because, with Bjorn and McGinley, I want them to have every chance to make the team as players again.

"I don't want the situation that Paul had two years ago where he resigned as Nick Faldo's vice captain because he wanted the chance to play his way into the team. So I am going to give them the chance through the Open because both Thomas and Paul are talented enough to go and win the British Open."

Olazabal distanced himself from another vice captaincy role after the 2008 Ryder Cup in Valhalla where he claimed he had no decision-making powers under Nick Faldo, but the Spaniard will be part of Monty's plans.

Montgomerie explained: "With his experience and from what heard from the players at Valhalla in 2008 and how good he was there, he would be invaluable for our team."

The leading website from the world’s oldest golf magazine, we’re the go-to destination for amateur and keen golfers alike who are keen to up their golfing game. As well as expert course reviews, news and tips to improve your handicap our golf-focused travel content will help you pair teeing off with your travels in some of the best destinations around the globe.