Monty to lead Europe against Asia
Thursday, 12 November 2009 09:20Colin Montgomerie is to have another taste of captaincy ahead of the Ryder Cup next year.
Montgomerie will also lead a European team against Asia at the Royal Trophy in Thailand on 8-10 January.
Seve Ballesteros was the original captain for the match but is not fit enough for the position after collapsing with a brain tumour a year ago.
Jose Maria Olazabal took over in January 2009 with Scot Montgomerie now assuming control.
Ballesteros, still receiving treatment, said: 'It is best for the players to have complete certainty as to who will lead them in this great match against Asia and while my recovery has been very good I am not certain that I will be ready to give our team the 110% effort it deserves.
'The role of captain is complex, difficult and demanding and I sincerely thank Colin, my very good friend, for taking this major responsibility.'
Montgomerie, currently competing in the Hong Kong Open, commented: 'It will be an excellent opportunity for me to spend time with some key players who are likely to be with me at Celtic Manor in October.
'I am excited about being European captain as well as representing our continent as a player.'
