Ireland’s Padraig Harrington has been confirmed as the captain of Team Europe for the 2020 Ryder Cup.

Harrington, who served as a vice-captain to Thomas Bjorn in 2018, becomes the third team captain from Ireland in the last four events as Europe head to Whistling Straits to defend their title.

He follows in the footsteps of Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley in recent matches.

‘I have played under many wonderful European captains since I made my debut 20 years ago, and I would like to think that my captaincy will be a mix of all of them. I’m very much looking forward to taking on this role,’ he said after Tuesday’s announcement.

Harrington’s bid to replace Bjorn was met with support by stars Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose.

The Irishman has four victories from six playing appearances.

England’s Lee Westwood, who won again on the European Tour at November’s Nedbank Golf Challenge, is likely to captain Team Europe when the cup returns to continental Europe in 2022.