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Rugby

Ireland's Call may become the inspiration for Europe's Ryder Cup team

It's an anthem that is regularly derided, but it looks like Ireland's Call may have a key role in...



Ireland's Call may become...
Rugby

Ireland's Call may become the inspiration for Europe's Ryder Cup team

It's an anthem that is regularly derided, but it looks like Ireland's Call may have a key role in Europe's preparations for the Ryder Cup in September and October.

Darren Clarke is to captain the European side this year and he has told The Guardian, that the lyrics to the Irish rugby anthem will be key to building unity in the team in Minnesota. 

"I want to use Shoulder to Shoulder as a sort of team mantra for this Ryder Cup," Clarke revealed. "I don’t want our players huddling together before we tee off but I do want to stress the fact we are all in this together, we’re a united force, and we’re much stronger together."

European Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke and the Ryder Cup trophy. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Presseye/Matt Mackey

The 47-year-old also said he wants to follow in Paul McGinley's footsteps and use Alex Ferguson in a motivational role for the team. The former Manchester United manager spoke to the European team at Gleneagles in 2014 before they won the event.

"Sir Alex Ferguson was such an inspirational figure at Gleneagles that I’d love to have him on board again. I’ll look into whether he’s free that week, and check out the possibility of flying him over with us."

Clarke is a Liverpool fan, and he hopes to speak with current manager Jurgen Klopp and former manager Kenny Dalglish ahead of the event. He also admitted that he hoped to pick the brains of England's Rugby World Cup winning head-coach Clive Woodward, along with former Ireland and Lions captain Paul O'Connell.

Europe are looking to retain they won in Scotland in 2014. The Ryder Cup takes place at Hazeltine in Minnesota from September 30th to October 2nd.

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