Do not underestimate McGinley - Strange

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McGinley will go head-to-head with USA captain Tom Watson, as Europe aim to win a third consecutive title when the Ryder Cup tees off in Scotland on September 26.

The 41st Ryder Cup will be McGinley's first as captain, having replaced Jose Maria Olazabal, while veteran Watson will lead the way for a second time having skippered USA to victory in 1993.

Watson also holds the edge over McGinley in terms of success on the golf course. The 65-year-old - a World Golf Hall of Famer - has eight majors to his name, which includes five Open Championship titles.

However, Strange - USA captain in 2002 - said McGinley is more than capable of matching it with Watson.

"Tom Watson being captain after so many years I think was a good choice from the standpoint of his age," Strange said.

"The players will want to do well for him and he will demand a certain amount of respect because of what he has accomplished in the game and brought to the game, which is a good thing.

"You want your players to play hard for you as well as your country and your tour. There is a lot of talk about Tom Watson but do not underestimate Paul McGinley."

Strange added: "Tom Watson has a grand championship record, especially over here in the Open.

"He's been a great ambassador for the game for many, many years and he continues to play well, but Paul McGinley is a smart man, he's a competitor and he captained the Seve Trophy twice so he has experience and Paul will represent his team very, very well."

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