(CNN) -- Europe's Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie has dismissed media reports quoting him as saying he would not have picked Tiger Woods had he been in charge of selecting the U.S. team, as the two sides arrived in Wales for this week's showpiece at Celtic Manor.
Woods' inclusion as a "wildcard" pick in the U.S. team was the subject of much speculation, as the world number one has struggled all season following much-publicized problems in his private life.
Speaking at a joint press conference with U.S. captain Corey Pavin at Cardiff Airport Monday, Montgomerie was effusive in his praise for 14-time major winner Woods.
"I've always said Tiger is the best player in the world and in my opinion, the best player to ever play the game. Of course he'd be in my team," the Scot said.
"It is great for the Ryder Cup that he is here. We welcome him to Wales with open arms".
Wales is hosting the Ryder Cup for the first time in the history of the competition between Europe and the United States.
CNN
