Missing Monty Files, Vol. 1

Mike Aitken is the first to miss Monty...

As a dozen of Europe's finest golfers posed for a team photo after the mist cleared at Valhalla this morning, the absence of Colin Montgomerie from the ranks for the first time since he made his debut in the match at Kiawah in 1991 was as jarring as Halloween without trick-or-treat.

For who, the photographer who brought his 17 mm wide angle lens only to find a bunch of ripped young guys?

Although no one, least of all the player himself, could argue the veteran Scot deserved a pick on the strength of his performances this year, that's not the same thing as debating how much Europe could miss his experience and tenacity in Kentucky.

According to Bernard Gallacher, who was Monty's captain on three occasions, the big Scot, at his best, brought versatility and inspiration to the team room and the course.

"Colin had the type of game which was good in both foursomes and fourballs," recalled Gallacher, who is working for Radio 5 in Louisville this week. "People talk about his unbeaten record in singles, but it was his adaptability I liked."

But just think how much food is left on the team buffet spread for Sergio when he's the last to stumble out of bed?