Woosnam backed for Ryder Cup captaincy

Ian Woosnam wants to succeed Sam Torrance as captain when Europe defend the Ryder Cup in the United States in 2004.

"I would like the chance," the 44-year-old Welshman told the Daily Mirror on Thursday.

"After tasting the delights of being vice-captain at The Belfry (last month) I now want to be captain and will make my application known (to the Ryder Cup committee)."

Woosnam had previously said he wanted to lead Europe for the 2010 Ryder Cup match when it is played in his home country Wales at Celtic Manor.

The two main contenders for Torrance's job in 2004 are Woosnam and Germany's Bernhard Langer.

On Wednesday, the day before playing in the Lancome Trophy at St Nom la Breteche near Versailles, Torrance backed Woosnam.

"I wouldn't like 'Woosie' to wait until the Wales match," said the Scotsman, happy to be relieved of his Ryder Cup duties so he can devote all his attention to warming up for the U.S. and European seniors tours.

"I think he should be the next captain. He made a wonderful vice-captain at The Belfry and he's got a terrific rapport with the players. He should be the one for America in 2004."

Europe beat the U.S. 15 1/2-12 1/2 in last month's match.

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