Paul Lawrie expressed his disappointment at not being involved in the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles as skipper Paul McGinley opted to recall his predecessor Jose Maria Olazabal to his backroom team.
The captain of the team that produced the Miracle at Medinah two years ago has agreed to assist McGinley, as the Irishman did for the Spaniard in Chicago.
As expected, active players Miguel Angel Jimenez and Padraig Harrington both future captaincy candidates also join the already appointed veterans Des Smyth and Sam Torrance.
Lawrie was tipped as a possible choice for McGinley with the cup being staged at Gleneagles, where the Scot has won before, but instead the Aberdonian will have no role at the matches.
“I’m extremely disappointed not to be involved at Gleneagles,” he said. “I’ve known for some time my game wasn’t up to playing, but thought I might have been involved in the back room team. I would like to wish everyone the best of luck and obviously hope Europe do the business again.”
Lawrie’s disappointment was tempered by his pleasure at seeing his close friend Stephen Gallacher selected.
“I got a text back from Stevie G when I sent him my congratulations on making the team to ask if he could pick my brains some time in next two weeks, which of course would be a pleasure,” he said.
“I’m so happy for Stevie to have made it, he’s clearly always had the talent.”
McGinley wanted a five-man back-up team to cover all matches and with the “additional workload” required for a home match.
“I am delighted to name Padraig, Miguel and Jos Mara, they will all bring valuable insight and experience to the players and the team room,” said the captain.