Langer's Ryder cup request for James

Bernhard Langer believes Europe will have a better chance of retaining the Ryder Cup in September if captain Mark James confines himself to off-green action.

German ace Langer insists it is imperative James follows the example of Seve Ballesteros, whose superb and inspirational non-playing role played a big part when Europe defeated America two years ago in Valderrama.

Langer, at Slaley Hall where he will play in the Compaq European Grand Prix, expressed confidence that Europe can inflict a third successive defeat on their rivals.

Langer has been impressed with the form James has shown this year - yet he is adamant the Ryder Cup captain must not play in the tournament.

He said: "I don't think he can do both. There's no way he can play and be captain at the same time, so he has to make up his mind.

"It's too big a job - there's too much media interest, too many things to do for a captain. That's my opinion, but you're going to have to ask Mark about that if he makes the team by the end of August.

James is currently lying seventh, one place above Langer in the Ryder Cup standings. Both can play if they remain in the top 10.

Langer also hit back at American Payne Stewart, who claimed the Ryder Cup belonged in America after he won the US Open at the weekend.

"We think otherwise," Langer added. "We have been fortunate to win for the last two times and we will be trying to continue doing that in the future.

"I think the team is shaping up well. There's going to be a couple of new faces which is on the cards every two years, and that's a very good and healthy progression."

Langer had won a European Tour event annually since 1980 before missing out for the first time last year. Now he is planning to return to winning ways on his debut around a course dubbed 'The Augusta of the North' because of its stunning beauty.

Langer said: "I haven't played the course before. With two top 10s, one 11th and one 32nd, I've not been able to put four great rounds together, which is what you need to win a tournament.

Ian Woosnam lost his battle for fitness after trapping his hand in a door when playing with his children earlier this month.

Event director Nigel Gough said: "Ian tried a practice round yesterday but realised there is no way he is fit enough to compete."