Clarke content with underdogs tag

Europe captain Darren Clarke says he has no issues with his team being branded the underdogs going into the Ryder Cup this week.

The Northern Irishman has six rookies in his ranks who will take on an experienced American side at Hazeltine, with the first day of action taking place on Friday in Minnesota.

Two-time major champion Johnny Miller has claimed that the European team is “on paper, the worst team they’ve had in many years” and feels the Americans should come out top this time around.

Clarke says he is happy to let the critics have their say and has no problem with his side not being viewed as the favourites, with Europe looking to claim their fourth successive Ryder Cup success.

He said: “We are always the underdogs, aren’t we? We’re always not supposed to win. But they have been doing okay, so you know, the guys are all here and they are very excited and keen to play.”

Tagged Darren Clarke, Europe, Ryder Cup