London: Colin Montgomerie would be mad to entertain the thought of returning as Europe's captain for the 2014 Ryder Cup, according to triple Major winner Padraig Harrington.

The players committee will meet during the January 17-20 Abu Dhabi Championship to decide on the successor to Jose Maria Olazabal at the biennial team event, with 2011 British Open champion Darren Clarke and Ireland’s Paul McGinley the frontrunners.

Clarke, however, said last month that he believes Europe should appoint a leader with a “huge presence”, suggesting 2010 skipper Montgomerie should be considered.

“There’s not a chance, after what he went through last time, that Colin would ever take the captaincy again,” Harrington said in an interview. “He puts so much more on the line than anybody else — it would be madness for him. He’s had a great Ryder Cup playing career, he’s been a successful captain - why risk all that?

“I can’t see in any shape or form him agreeing to do it again.”

The US, desperate to halt a run of seven defeats in nine editions, appointed eight-time Major champion Tom Watson as captain last month.

“That was a big statement and brilliant for the event,” said Clarke. “There are few more iconic figures in golf...and it sends out a statement they are serious about winning the trophy back.

“Maybe we have to consider other people. Whoever it is standing on that stage opposite Tom Watson needs a huge presence.”

(Reuters)