With the showdown against the United States looming, Montgomerie has had little time to recover from his injury.

The Scot pulled out of the NEC World Championship in Auguust after 27 holes and then chose not to play in the BMW International Open in Munich a week later.

He returned to action at the German Masters in Cologne and performed well, although there is still the concern Montgomerie's back spasms may resurface during Ryder Cup competition.

Ballesteros believes a fit Montgomerie would could be key to Europe's chances at The Belfry.

"Monty is a very important player for our team," said the Spaniard.

"He will play an important part and I just hope he feels better.

"I wouldn't say I'm pessimistic if he is less than 100%, but the chances of us winning would be reduced.

"Having said that, you don't win the Ryder Cup with one player - as I proved at Valderrama (1997).

"Everybody thought Tiger Woods would win the match, but he didn't play well because of the way the course was set up."