Colin Montgomerie’s bid to ensure Europe regain the Ryder Cup is to be given a boost after the Scot revealed he plans to seek advice from Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

The European Ryder Cup captain will pick the brains of his countryman ahead of next year’s showdown with the USA in a bid to understand the secrets that have helped United become one of the most successful football teams in history under Sir Alex’s stewardship.

Montgomerie said: “Something is going to be set up with Sir Alex and I in a golf situation.

“I want to pick his brains, he's been the best man-manager to get the most out of the players that he has. His record is second to none.

“Being Scottish and having that drive and ambition - he still has it. We saw it with the official last week; the passion in the game is everything for him.

“I'm a great fan of his. The motivational speeches when things are down, that's the most important thing that I want to learn.

“It’s easy to know how to motivate players when things are going well and you’re winning the key is how to do it when you are not.”