Sandy Lyle - with his fans at Augusta last week
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Former Open and Masters champion Sandy Lyle, who forced his way back into the public eye with a stunning performance at Augusta, claims that Colin Montgomerie has ignored him since the eight-time European No. 1 was named as Ryder Cup captain for the 2010 match at Celtic Manor.
Lyle, who finished alongside Ryder Cup hopefuls Ian Poulter, Justin Rose and Rory McIlroy in 20th place on Sunday on two under par, had also been keen to take on the role of Europe’s Ryder Cup skipper. And, only last year, was being backed for the position by Monty himself.
Ian Woosnam and Jose Maria Olazabal were also in the race to become captain in 2010 before Montgomerie, in a surprise move by the european Tour, was handed the post.
Lyle claims he has tried to contact Montgomerie about offering his services for the three-day event but has yet to receive a response.
The 51-year-old – winner of the 1985 Open and 1988 Masters – reportedly told the Daily Mirror before last week's Masters: "It was pretty much a below-the-belt type of punch when I didn't get the captaincy.
But I haven't spoken to Colin or had any response at all from him since he got the captaincy.
"Monty doesn't live too far away from me in Scotland, and I've left messages on his phone and he just hasn't returned any of my calls. That's very disappointing."
Having forced his way back into the limelight and earning the respect of the young guns, let's hope the veteran will be taken up on his offer of assistance.
