McGinley: Vice-captaincy roles put Clarke in good stead for Hazeltine

Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley feels Darren Clarke will do a good job this time around with a talented team to call on.

McGinley was at the helm of the European dozen two years ago at Gleneagles and was roundly praised for the way he marshalled his troops to victory by 16.5 points to 11.5.

The Irishman has now passed the baton to the man from Northern Ireland, who will lead an inexperienced team to Hazeltine at the end of the month.

Europe have been installed as underdogs for the three-day event, with US captain Davis Love III having just one rookie to Europe’s six in his ranks, although he does have one pick left to confirm.

Clarke will look to upset the odds across the Atlantic and McGinley believes his previous experience of the event will stand him in good stead during the high-pressure showpiece.

“I think he’ll be a very good captain,” said the 49-year-old. “Like me, he’s been blessed with a great team and, like me, he’s also had two goes as a vice-captain which is very important for a succession plan we have in Europe.”

Tagged Darren Clarke, Paul McGinley, Ryder Cup