Sam Torrance has backed Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie to succeed where Nick Faldo failed – because he is still a regular on the playing tour.

Faldo – Montgomerie’s predecessor as Ryder Cup skipper – was criticised during Europe’s defeat in Valhalla last year for not having a strong bond with the squad.

But Torrance - who led Europe to victory at the Belfry in 2002 – believes Monty will have no such problems.

“He will be a very good captain and is still on the tour - that is imperative I think,” said Torrance.

“When I was captain I was still on tour and playing with them week in, week out.

“You can create a bond and camaraderie with the others. Things like that are very important.”