Darren Clarke named Europe's Ryder Cup captain for 2016

Darren Clarke has been named Europe's captain for the 2016 Ryder Cup in Hazeltine, USA.

The Northern Irishman has been named skipper ahead of Miguel Angel Jimenez who was also on the shortlist along with Thomas Bjorn.

The 46-year-old served as vice captain in Europe's recent wins at Medinah and Celtic Manor and has won the competition as a player on four occasions, having also won the Open in 2011.

A five-man committee, including 2014's winning captain Paul McGinley and recent skippers Jose Maria Olazabal and Colin Montgomerie, met at Wentworth to vote ahead of next year's competition.

"I am naturally extremely proud to be selected as European Ryder Cup captain for 2016," Clarke said.

"The Ryder Cup has been a massive part of my life and my career, so to have the chance to lead Europe next year is a huge honour.

"I am lucky to have played and worked under some fantastic captains in my seven Ryder Cups to date, and I look forward to the challenge of trying to follow in their footsteps and help Europe to a fourth consecutive Ryder Cup victory at Hazeltine next year."