Monty backs compatriots for World Cup

COLIN Montgomerie, a World Cup winner with Marc Warren in 2007, is tipping Stephen Gallacher and Martin Laird as genuine title contenders in China.

“I fancy their chances,” said the former Ryder Cup captain. “Martin Laird is a world-class player and Stephen Gallacher is as good as anyone on his day.

“That’s what happened with Marc Warren when we won.

“Marc was as good as anyone that year. That particular week he was on his game, I was my usual consistent self and we won it.”

They posted a four-round total of 263 at Mission Hills, beating American duo Heath Slocum and Boo Weekley in a play-off. “That was great, especially after we had finished runners-up the year before, losing in a play-off,” added Montgomerie, who has made ten apearances in the event and also lifted the individual title in 1997.

“Now, if both Stephen and Martin can play to their potential, they will also have a chance of winning, no question.”