Clarke and McGinley to represent Europe

Ryder Cup team-mates Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley will be back playing for Europe in the Royal Trophy in Bangkok in January.

Both have confirmed their places in Seve Ballesteros's side for the defence of the trophy against Asia, which takes place between January 12-14 at the Amata Spring Country Club. Europe won the inaugural match 9-7 earlier this year.

Two more of the K Club stars, Swedes Henrik Stenson and Robert Karlsson, have already committed themselves to the event.

Clarke, winner of all his three games against the Americans six weeks after his wife Heather died of cancer, said: 'I think everyone could see how much I enjoyed the experience of being part of the team at the Ryder Cup and I am really looking forward to making my first appearance in the Royal Trophy.

'I have already said I am going to be very selective about which events I play in next year - for obvious reasons - but this was one I was very much drawn to. The crowds have always been very kind to me whenever I've played in Asia in the past.'

McGinley said:  'I was thrilled to be invited back as I enjoyed the first Royal Trophy immensely.'

Ballesteros commented: 'It will be very reassuring to have two more very talented and experienced players on our team when we face what is certain to be a very strong challenge from our Asian opponents under the leadership of Joe Ozaki.

'I thought what Darren achieved at the Ryder Cup was incredible as well as extremely heart-warming. He handled himself superbly as a person, as a family man and rose to the occasion as a golfer.'