United States, Dec 19: Colin Montgomerie and Nick Faldo, who are rivals for the job of European Ryder Cup captain in 2006, have joined forces in calling for team selection criteria to change.
The way the team is chosen is up for discussion ahead of the 2004 match in America, and the pair suggest players are chosen on worldwide performances rather than just the European Order of Merit.
"I like the idea that wherever the guy plays he is getting points," said Faldo.
One proposal is that five players are taken from the European Order of Merit, with five from the world rankings and two picks from the captain. Montgomerie agreed that players should be given credit when they play outside Europe.
"I think it's important if someone like Justin Rose goes off to Japan and wins a tournament, that he should get points for what he has achieved there against possibly a tougher field.



"It's important that that win is somehow incorporated into the Ryder Cup points list."



But he added: "You always have to leave open the option of at least two picks.



"Even if you go for the five-five you need the option of a couple.



"It gives the captain the choice to pick those who come up in the last month or so and also to go for who he thinks will work as a partnership."



Faldo and Montgomerie have emerged as the favourites to lead the team at the K Club in County Kildare in 2006, while Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam are battling it out to be captain in 2004.


Bureau Report