"Only Seve Ballesteros ever showed as much emotion or brought as much charisma to the Ryder Cup as Monty."

Apparently they've already played the 2010 Ryder Cup and I must have missed it. So Europe won? Well, I can only surmise that based on Derek Lawrenson's assessment of Monty's early press performances and his beautifully handled public spat with Sandy Lyle. Oh and those private struggles with Jose Maria Olazabal also have been to drawer!

Only Seve Ballesteros ever showed as much emotion or brought as much charisma to the Ryder Cup as Monty. While the last skipper Nick Faldo was happy to do the job from a remove of 3,000 miles, this one will attend more qualifying events over the next 12 months than anyone trying to make the team. While Faldo turned up at the last match not knowing whether Graeme McDowell was from the north or south of Ireland, Monty will probably be able to tell you which street he was brought up on.

That'll come in handy during Sunday singles when McDowell is three down to Anthony Kim.

"Remember Graeme, you're from north where they make the lads strong and smart. Speaking of the north, I'm doing a little post-Cup talk near Portrush. Where can I get some good ulster fry?"