Two-time Major winner Sandy Lyle has expressed his desire to captain the European Ryder Cup team in 2010. The Scot is hoping to succeed Nick Faldo as continental captain when the contest comes to Celtic Manor in Wales in two years' time.

The 50-year-old, who has put his name forward, is also keen to take up a position under Faldo at this year's competition in Valhalla.

A vice-captain's role is currently available following Paul McGinley's decision to concentrate on playing, which left Jose Maria Olazabal as the only deputy.

Lyle, who was an assistant to Ian Woosnam at the last Ryder Cup two years ago, is well qualified to step into the breach, but he has not yet been approached.

Lyle said: "It would be helpful — it also would keep me involved with the team for future Ryder Cup stuff. Of course I'm interested in the captaincy. I've got my name down on the list and I've got a very, very good chance of picking that up and to be involved as a deputy or vice-captain would be very much appreciated."

The 50-year-old, who made his senior debut in the Challenge Tour at Newport Beach earlier this month, is confident his vast experience in the States could benefit the 2008 continental team.

"I've obviously been to America many times so I know the American ways," added Lyle, who was at the Ballantine's Championship in South Korea in an ambassadorial role last week.

"But it's not sure who's doing what right now. We know a vice-captain has already been selected, which is Olazabal, but as far as anything else has gone nothing has been mentioned."