Clarke excited by European Ryder Cup team

Europe's Ryder Cup team may be made up of at least five rookies next month but captain Darren Clarke is not concerned.

Matthew Fitzpatrick became the final player to earn an automatic place for the contest at Hazeltine on Sunday, the young Englishman joining Danny Willett, Rafael Cabrera-Bello, Andy Sullivan and Chris Wood in the nine guaranteed spots.

They are joined by Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia and Olympic champion Justin Rose, with Clarke also having three wildcard picks.

While some may suggest having such an inexperienced side could work against Europe - who have won the last three editions of the competition - Clarke is excited by the fresh look to his team.

"I am absolutely delighted with the nine players who have qualified," said Clarke.

"They offer not only a fantastic blend of youth and experience but also some exciting partnership possibilities.

"In the experienced corner we have two men who have lit up the world of golf in recent weeks, Open champion Henrik Stenson and Olympic champion Justin Rose, joined by Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy who, aside from being two of the most dynamic Ryder Cup performers of recent years, are also winners this year... Sergio in the United States and Rory in Europe.

"In the rookies' corner it is very rare you begin any such list with the reigning Masters champion but we are fortunate to do just that with Danny Willett, while Rafa Cabrera Bello, Matt Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan and Chris Wood bring a mixture of consistency and success."