Rory McIlroy backs Darren Clarke to captain Europe in Ryder Cup

Clarke is among the favourites to succeed Paul McGinley as captain of Europe, who made it three Ryder Cup triumphs in a row with a convincing victory at Gleneagles last week.

McIlroy would love to see his fellow Ulsterman, who has enjoyed success as a player in the United States, appointed and also heaped further praise on McGinley.

"Obviously, there's been a few names being thrown about. I've said with a Ryder Cup being in America, I feel that Darren Clarke would be the perfect man to lead the team there," said McIlroy.

"He's got a great reputation everywhere, but especially in the States. The fans really love him there and he's got a good rapport with everyone.

"I think he would be the right man to do it next time at Hazeltine."

Highlighting the positive atmosphere fostered by McGinley at Gleneagles, McIlroy - who claimed three points from five matches - added: "Of all the Ryder Cups, this one was the one I enjoyed the most, the one that I embraced the most, and the one where I played some of my best golf on Saturday and Sunday.

"It was really enjoyable and Paul McGinley did a great job with the team and got a great team spirit in the team room and. We showed that on the golf course."