BBC SPORT | Golf | Torrance hails Man Utd boss

Re-live Europe's win in the 34th Ryder Cup

Europe's Ryder Cup winning captain Sam Torrance has revealed how phone calls to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson helped to defeat the United States.

Torrance asked both Sir Alex and England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson for advice on how to help mould a team from a number of highly paid professionals.

Europe reclaimed the Ryder Cup on Sunday, after defeating the US 15�-12� to spark wild celebrations at the Belfry.

I was so impressed with the way Sam (Torrance) led the team

Sir Alex Ferguson

And Torrance has described the input from both Ferguson and Eriksson as "magnificent".

"Alex was perfect," Torrance said. "He manages the same situation daily and throughout the year I've gleaned advice from him.

"When I was appointed captain I realised I'd be in charge of the stars from different countries and I needed to talk to someone who could help.

Who should captain Europe in 2004?

"He has been magnificent. Always on the phone when I needed him. In fact, he phoned me last Tuesday with advice and again last night (Sunday) to congratulate me," he told The Sun newspaper.

Sir Alex Ferguson gave Torrance "magnificent" advice
Ferguson admitted that Europe's victory has been one of the most extraordinary sporting events he had ever witnessed.

"I honestly don't think I've been gripped by a day's sport, other than football, more than I was on Sunday," he said.

"It was absolutely tremendous. What a performance by Sam and the boys."

Torrance added: "Alex tried to explain what it's like to manage a team.

"He said there are no superstars they are all the same. That was the key.

"Everyone made a major part of the team, from the rookies to the big names. Sven-Goran Eriksson was also helpful, but, no disrespect to him, Alex's words were the most useful."

Read what BBC golf correspondent Tony Adamson had to say


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