Langer backed for Ryder Cup captaincy

Colin Montgomerie has shown his support for claims that Bernhard Langer should succeed Sam Torrance as European Ryder Cup captain , saying that the German would be "a suitable candidate" to lead Europe's defence at Oakland Hills in 2004.

Monty, whose sublime performance at the Belfry led Europe to a three point win over Curtis Strange's twelve at the Belfry, is keen for Langer to fill the post.

"It would be wrong if Langer wasn't given the opportunity of captaining a team," Montgomerie said.

"I think that (the Ryder Cup matches) being in America, married to an American and living here practically full time, that Langer would be a suitable candidate for us."

Langer is still to decide whether or not he will put himself forward for selection as already chosen Hal Sutton's counterpart, as he believes his chance of qualifying for the team is still a real one.

"I seem to have the support of my colleagues and the people who will make that decision. That is good to know," he said.

"We still have nine months to go. There is no need to make a decision right now because I wouldn't have anything to do as captain, right?"

Should Langer join the race for the captaincy, Welshman Ian Woosnam would be his chief rival.

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