Monty confident on Westwood's fitness

European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie says he is encouraged by news of Lee Westwood's fitness battle ahead of the contest in October.

The world number three was forced to pull out of this week's USPGA Championship because of a calf injury and has been advised to rest.

"He will be hitting balls in four weeks, which is great news for everybody in Europe," said Montgomerie.

"Our team will be greatly weakened if he didn't make it, so I'm delighted."

"That gives him still another couple of weeks to prepare," said Montgomerie.

"He wants to play in the preceding event (The Vivendi in Paris on September 23-26) and I would be glad to see him there.

"But if he doesn't I'm sure three practice rounds around Celtic Manor will be good enough for Lee."

GOLF: Colin Montgomerie names three vice captains

Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie has named Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley as his vice-captains. Europe face United States in the Ryder Cup which is due to take place at Celtic Manor in Wales in October. Europe are looking to regain the Cup after losing out the United States last year.

Europe are favourites for this years tournament after great success from European players this season, vice captain Paul McGinley added, "Based on world rankings, we're clear favourites,"

He added, "It's not often you can say that about a European side, usually it is only the Americans that are clear favourites. This is undoubtedly one of the strongest European teams we have had."