Ian Poulter named Ryder Cup vice-captain

• Ian Poulter named as Darren Clarke’s fourth vice-captain
• “I was truly honoured to be asked by Darren,” he said
• Poulter joins Lawrie, Harrington and Bjorn as vice-captains

Ian Poulter has been named as Darren Clarke’s fourth vice-captain for the forthcoming Ryder Cup at Hazeltine.

On Friday, it was announced that the 40-year-old was all but ruled out of this year’s match with a foot injury, forcing him to take a four-month break from competitive golf.

Over the weekend, a handful of leading European names including Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and Luke Donald stated their desire for Ian Poulter to be involved in some shape or form – with Clarke making the announcement this morning.

Read more -> 2016 Ryder Cup team as chosen by you!

“Everyone who knows me knows how much the Ryder Cup means, having given me memories to savour over the past 12 years and created friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Ian Poulter.

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“Therefore when it became clear, given my current foot condition, that I would not be in a position to try and qualify for the team for a sixth time this year or indeed be able to justify a wildcard pick, I was truly honoured and delighted to be asked by Darren to be a vice-captain.

“The best moments of my career have come when I have been wearing the blue and gold crest of Europe on my chest, knowing at the same time that the contest means so much to every European player and to every European fan, either in the crowd or watching back home on television.

“We have a tremendous record in the Ryder Cup in recent times, having played with passion, desire and commitment. It is something we should be proud of and, rest assured, I will do everything in my power to maintain that intensity and help Europe’s quest to retain the trophy.”

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Speaking about Ian Poulter, following on from the appointments of Paul Lawrie, Padraig Harrington and Thomas Bjorn last week, Clarke said: “I am absolutely delighted to name Ian as my fourth vice-captain for the match. Ian’s Ryder Cup record speaks for itself and stands comparison with anyone in the history of this great contest. It goes without saying what a vital presence he will be in our team room come September.

“At the EurAsia Cup, I saw first-hand his influence off the golf course, especially amongst the younger players who were experiencing team match play golf for the first time. When he spoke, everyone listened, and the same will be the case at Hazeltine.”

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Ian Poulter vice-captain :: Your thoughts

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