McGinley (centre) with Ryder Cup team-mates Clarke and Harrington

The Dubliner believes Christy O'Connor Jnr, Des Smyth or Eamonn Darcy would be "brilliant" in the coveted position at the K Club in County Kildare.

But McGinley, who holed the winning putt at The Belfry two years ago and was unbeaten in the 2004 triumph, admits they face fierce competition.

"I think it's an outside chance there will be an Irish captain," he said.

Bernhard Langer skippered Europe to a record 18�-9� win over the USA at Oakland Hills in the 2004 contest.

But if the German decides to step down, several names have been tipped as potential successors, including England's Nick Faldo, Welshman Ian Woosnam and Scot Colin Montgomerie.

CAPTAINCY CONTENDERS Langer/Monty doubts Woosnam bids for role Lyle reveals interest

"I'm a realist and I understand that the guys sitting in the wings chomping at the bit to be captain are heavyweights," said McGinley.

"It's just unfortunate timing for the Irish lads, but I'll be very disappointed if they don't have some role in the team."

McGinley, speaking at Mount Juliet in County Kilkenny where he will contest the WGC-Amex World Championship, is a member of the players' committee which will discuss the captaincy.

And while Langer was appointed in July 2003, just 14 months before the contest, McGinley wants the decision to be made by the end of this year.