DEFENDING Champion Darren Clarke may be rated as a 50-1 outsider by some bookies but that wasn't putting him off his game.

He was full of confidence going into today's first round and said: "They can have me at whatever they want, that's up to them."

Clarke was boosted by finishing four under par in yesterday's pro-am, where he was clearly striking the ball well. He also confirmed that his back problem had cleared up.

Nick Faldo must do well at the Oxfordshire to get in contention for a place in the Ryder Cup team.

He said: "I still think I can make it. There are still 12 more events to go. I have got to get it right and when I do, I will be away. I still love playing and want to play well and compete. That is what it is all about."

Colin Montgomerie is favourite to win the competition but has a lot of respect for Faldo, who he hoped would make the Ryder team. He said: "A European golf team without Faldo is a weaker team. Nothing will change my mind about that." He added: "An 80 per cent fit Faldo would still make my Ryder team." Monty is favourite to win the competition and was pleased to be playing on home soil. He said: "Its nice to be able to go home and get into your own bed at night."

He has set himself the target of winning two out of his next three tournaments and reckons he is ready for victory. He warned his rivals: "You got to bring your game to the course and not find it there."

Story date: Thursday 13 May

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