Torrance - Europe will win

By Mike Burnett

Torrance believes Langer can guide Europe to victory

Former Ryder Cup-winning captain Sam Torrance has backed Bernhard Langer's team to win at Oakland Hills next week.

Torrance, who led the European team to victory in 2002, told BBC Sport: "I think Europe are going to win.

"Bernhard's got 12 guys going into this match and every one of them is almost playing the best golf of their lives and they're all ready.

"That gives him much more scope. Often, one or two are not playing their best, so you're only picking from 10."

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Torrance, who guided Europe to a sensational 15½-12½ win over the Americans at The Belfry two years ago, also believes this year's captain Bernhard Langer is the right man to lead Europe to glory.

Bernhard's got 12 guys playing well and any one of them could be the star of the show Sam Torrance 2002 Ryder Cup captain

"Bernhard's a gentleman - very level-headed, meticulous in every aspect of golf," he said.

"He won't leave anything unturned and I'm sure he'll get it right."

Torrance said the American team lacked Europe's depth and added that he was impressed with Langer's choice of wildcards.

"They've got Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Davis Love - they're the best players, but in the end it's down to 12 players.

"Bernhard's got 12 guys playing well, which is terrific, and any one of them could be the star of the show.

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"He made exactly the right decision, picking a bit of experience with Colin Montgomerie, and another rookie in Luke Donald."

The 35th Ryder Cup takes place at Oakland Hills outside Detroit, Michigan from 17-19 September.