Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley named as European Ryder Cup vice-captains

Darren Clarke (GETTY IMAGES)

European captain Jose Maria Olazabal has named Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley as three of his four vice-captains for the Ryder Cup.

The trio have played in 10 Ryder Cups between them, with nine wins to their credit, and their experience will be leaned on heavily by Olazabal when his Europe team take on the United States in Illinois next month.

Olazabal, a former player and vice-captain, said: "I could not be more delighted than to have Thomas, Darren and Paul as vice-captains especially as we bonded so well supporting Colin Montgomerie in 2010. All three are world-class golfers with tremendous experience of playing in the Ryder Cup which is absolutely invaluable.

"For me to have these guys - all such great friends - by my side is fantastic. I know like me they will now be counting down the days to to Medinah with one aim - to return home with the Cup," Olazabal added.

Bjorn said: "I'm delighted to be invited by Jose Maria and to be one of his vice-captains. We know that an experienced backroom team can make a big difference, and together we will be looking to support the captain in making good decisions and making the team feel comfortable with what they are doing."

Clarke, winner of the Open last year, said: "I am really pleased to be part of Jose Maria's team and I know that we can instil that relaxed atmosphere in the team room and help the captain get the best out of the players.

McGinley, who holed the winning putt on his Ryder Cup debut in 2002, added: "I am thrilled to be part of Team Europe again."

The Ryder Cup will be staged at the Medinah Country Club, Chicago, from September 28-30.

PA