Poulter played in the 2003 and 2005 Seve Trophy events

Ian Poulter has defended his decision to pull out of Britain and Ireland's team for the Vivendi Trophy in Paris.

Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie was disappointed by the 33-year-old not competing in what was the Seve Trophy.

"It would have been great to play the Vivendi Trophy, but it's very difficult to play every event," Poulter said on his Twitter feed.

"It's important not to burn out. I really want to be fresh and strong for the Ryder Cup qualifying events."

He added: "The Ryder Cup means everything to me."

Despite Montgomerie's criticism, Poulter said: "I think Monty will make a great captain, with such an impressive Ryder Cup record he knows what it takes. He will inspire."

After failing to make the field for the PGA Tour Championship, Poulter has opted to spend time with his family in Florida and work on his fitness.

Lee Westwood and Justin Rose joined him in withdrawing from the Britain & Ireland team for the competition which pits them against Continental Europe.

Padraig Harrington and Luke Donald are also not in the team because they are competing in the United States, while Paul Casey is injured.

Sergio Garcia was Continental Europe's main absentee, with Martin Kaymer injured.

"It's so easy to play too many tournaments and then your form will drop without you noticing it, mental fatigue, then physical," added Poulter.

"The Vivendi Trophy will be awesome to highlight some potential new Ryder cup players, Ross Fisher, Rory McIlroy, Soren Kjeldsen, Alvaro Quiros, Nick Dougherty, Chris Wood, etc."

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