Ian Poulter named vice-captain of Europe Ryder Cup team

England's Ian Poulter has been vice-captain of the Europe team

Ian Poulter has been named as one of Europe's vice-captains at the 2016 Ryder Cup after ruling himself out of a playing role at the event.

European captain Darren Clarke named Thomas Bjorn, Paul Lawrie and Padraig Harrington as vice-captains last week and has now added Poulter to his backroom team.
Poulter, who is expected to be sidelined for four months, said in a statement: "Everyone who knows me knows how much the Ryder Cup means, having given me memories to savour over the past 12 years and created friendships that will last a lifetime.

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Ian Poulter's performance late on the second day at Medinah provided incredible drama

"Therefore when it became clear, given my current foot condition, that I would not be in a position to try and qualify for the team for a sixth time this year or indeed be able to justify a wild-card pick, I was truly honoured and delighted to be asked by Darren to be a vice-captain.
"The best moments of my career have come when I have been wearing the blue and gold crest of Europe on my chest, knowing at the same time that the contest means so much to every European player and to every European fan, either in the crowd or watching back home on television.
"Darren shares that same passion and he knows I will be there to assist him and the 12 players who will line up at Hazeltine in any way I can.

Poulter played a key role in Europe's 2012 Ryder Cup victory

"We have a tremendous record in The Ryder Cup in recent times, having played with passion, desire and commitment. It is something we should be proud of and, rest assured, I will do everything in my power to maintain that intensity and help Europe's quest to retain the trophy."
Poulter is best-known for his exploits in the Ryder Cup, having compiled a very impressive record in five appearances, during one of which he played a starring role in the famous 'Miracle of Medinah' comeback in 2012.
In 18 Ryder Cup rubbers (foursomes, fourballs and singles), Poulter has won 12, lost four, and halved two.

Darren Clarke says Poulter has a 'vital' role to play

Clarke, who was Poulter's partner in the latter's first Ryder Cup match in 2004, said: "I am absolutely delighted to name Ian as my fourth vice-captain for the match at Hazeltine.
"Ian's Ryder Cup record speaks for itself and stands comparison with anyone in the history of this great contest. It goes without saying what a vital presence he will be in our team room come September."
The 2016 Ryder Cup will take place at Hazeltine National in Minnesota, from 30 September to 2 October and will be shown live on Sky Sports.