Golf: The PGA of America will today announce their Ryder Cup captain for the defence of the trophy at Celtic Manor in Wales in 2010, with Corey Pavin the firm favourite to land the role.

The 49-year-old Californian, who will have a tough act to follow in Paul Azinger, was last involved in the match as one of Tom Lehman's assistants in the record-equalling defeat (18.5- 9.5) defeat at the K-Club in 2006.

There had been speculation that Azinger, who in September led the United States to their first victory since 1999, might stay on.

However, since Azinger let it be known at the start of this week that he was not continuing in the job - the last time America re-appointed somebody was Ben Hogan in 1949 - Pavin has emerged as a clear favourite.

Winner of the US Open in 1995, he made the last of his three cup appearances as a player later that same year.

Although the Americans lost the match he won four of his five games to finish his career with eight wins and five defeats.

Pavin's debut had been at Kiawah Island in 1991 and was involved in controversy when he joined partner Steve Pate in wearing a "Desert Storm" cap during a match that became so heated it was known as "The War on the Shore".

Azinger's team achieved victory at in September Valhalla even though they were without the injured Tiger Woods.

The world number one should be back for the first match to be held on Welsh soil, but he has been on the winning side only once in five matches.

Europe have not been beaten at home since 1993 and only once since 1981.

The next European captain will be discussed by the Tour's players committee next month, with Jose Maria Olazabal and Sandy Lyle favourites. Nick Faldo has expressed an interest in taking on the role again but the chances of that are slim.