Padraig Harrington allays fears over star man McIlroy

Padraig Harrington has wasted no time in allaying concerns about Rory McIlroy’s involvement in the next Ryder Cup.

Harrington, who was unveiled as Europe’s captain for the 2020 match yesterday, said that McIlroy will “100%” be part of his team for the trophy defence at Whistling Straits.

Ongoing uncertainty over the Northern Irishman’s commitment to the European Tour has led some to speculate that the four-time major winner will be absent from the match.

• Pros react to Harrington’s Ryder Cup appointment

• Torrance backs McIlroy over PGA Tour controversy

However, Harrington shot down those claims, insisting that the 29-year-old former world No.1 will absolutely be involved.

“That man loves the Ryder Cup,” said the new European skipper. “He’s become a leader in the team room.

“He gives so much to the Ryder Cup; the Ryder Cup gives so much back to Rory that he can’t get anywhere else. He gets the glory, the opportunity to be loved on the golf course. He gets the exuberance, the crowd.

“You don’t get that day in, day out. You don’t get that regularly. His actions are all about the Ryder Cup.

• Where will future editions of the Ryder Cup be played? Find out here…