Olazabal not thinking of Ryder role

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The Spaniard takes charge of the European team in the third edition of the Ryder Cup-style team event against Asia, succeeding his friend and compatriot Seve Ballesteros, who is recovering from a series of operations after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

The 42-year-old, who was Nick Faldo's vice-captain at the 2008 Ryder Cup in Valhalla, said: "I'm just concentrating on this week. I'm not thinking about the Ryder Cup captaincy at the moment - I'm more concerned about my health."

He added: "I'm not 100%. I still have a few things going on but hopefully everything will be clear shortly and I'll be able to play competitive golf again soon."

Olazabal, who has won two majors, and Ballesteros formed the most formidable pairing in Ryder Cup history with 11 wins and two halves from 15 matches.

Olazabal believes his vast experience and his intricate knowledge can help lead Nick Dougherty, Johan Edfors, Niclas Fasth, Soren Hansen, Pablo Larrazabal, Paul Lawrie, Paul McGinley and Oliver Wilson to victory over Naomichi 'Joe' Ozaki's Asian side.

"The good thing about me being captain is that I'm old enough to have played with most of these guys," added Olazabal.

"I know the players quite well and we've known each other for many years."