Europe’s most successful Ryder Cup captain has backed Justin Rose to help lead the continent to glory in the latest edition of the famous event.

Tony Jacklin, inset above, who has guided the team to the trophy on three occasions, says the Hampshire ace forms part of the “backbone” of this year’s squad.

Rose, the 2013 US Open champion, played a crucial role in Europe’s historic comeback against the United States two years ago and has secured his place at Gleneagles later this month.

With a record of six points from a possible nine during his two appearances in the competition, he has established himself as one of his side’s most dependable performers.

But it is not just the quality of the 34-year-old’s game that Jacklin believes makes him such a fantastic Ryder Cup player – it is also his character and versatility.

“I think he’s the real deal, Justin,” said Jacklin, who led Europe to victory in 1985 and 1987, and ensured they retained the trophy in 1989.

“He’s a fine young guy, and he’s deserved everything he’s got.

“He’s got a great golf swing, a happy family, and he’s living in the right place, in my opinion, in America.

“That’s where the best players are, and the conditions mean you are able to practise and keep your game in shape all year round.

“We don’t know what Rory (McIlroy) is going to do in the future. On his day, he’s that bit better than everyone else, but certainly Justin is someone who has got the opportunity to win multiple major championships in the next few years.

“He’s got a great swing, and he’s got it figured out.

“He’s one of the stalwarts and backbone of the European team.

“He’s a prince of a guy, and the sort of player a captain can trust in any partnership, or on an individual basis.”

Europe are this month chasing a hat-trick of successive Ryder Cup wins, while they have claimed the trophy on five of the last six occasions.

The 2012 success – dubbed the ‘Miracle at Medinah’ – was one of their finest ever, recovering from 10-6 down on the final day to win 14.5-13.5 on US soil.

Jacklin is confident that Paul McGinley’s men will follow that up with another win, against Tom Watson’s side, this month.

“You never know, that’s why we go and watch,” he said ahead of the event, which runs from September 26-28. “But it’s looking very good for Europe.

“Watson’s team is in disarray – they’re dropping like flies, so he’s got problems with some of his players and their physical state.

“The Ryder Cup is about the team, but there is no doubt if you have strong individuals – like McIlroy, Rose, (Martin) Kaymer, who are all major winners – that trickles down into the other players who are aspiring to reach that level.

“I’m certainly not backing America. I think Europe have got a great opportunity.”

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