Top-ranked Scot Russell Knox is not about go on a charm offensive to get to better known after the appointment of new European Ryder Cup captain Thomas Bjorn.
Knox has applauded Bjorn’s appointment despite admitting he has hardly spoke to the Dane.
It was much the same scenario this past year with some observers remarking Knox's lack of a relationship with Darren Clarke resulted in the Scot being overlooked as a "wildcard" pick.
Bjorn was appointed as 2018 European Team captain earlier this week and in a move that surprised no-one given the Dane’s rich credentials as a three-time former Ryder Cup player, four-time vice-captain, eight Seve Trophy appearances and being long-time chair of the Players Tournament Committee.
“I’ve probably played just once in the company of Thomas and probably said about 20 words to him, so I hardly know him at all," said Knox ahead of the second round of the Shark Shootout in Florida.
“I thought Paul Lawrie might have a chance but then it came as no surprise given how many other people I had spoken to that Thomas was appointed and by all reports he’s going to be a great captain.
“However, in saying that I would love to get the chance to know him a lot better though that doesn’t mean having to go out of my way.
“My goal once the 2018 qualifying process gets underway is to play good enough to be a part of the team and that means qualifying automatically.
“If I do play well enough I am sure Thomas and I will get to know each other better and that will happen if I can keep playing the way I know I can play.”
And Knox confirmed that earlier last week, and before heading to the Bahamas for the Hero World Challenge, he joined the European Tour for 2017
Also, welcoming the appointment of Bjorn was victorious Hazeltine USA vice-captain Steve Stricker and winning team member, Matt Kuchar.
“We kind of saw the appointment of Thomas coming so it was no surprise from our end," said Stricker.
“Thomas is a good man and I’ve always enjoyed being around him, so it’s not a shock he’s the new European captain.
“I’ve played against a few times in Ryder Cup competition along with the Majors, and I’ve always enjoyed his company and he seems like a real, great guy.”
And Kuchar, who had teamed with U.S. Open champion, Dustin Johnson in the opening day Foursomes to complete the 5-nil whitewash of Europe, commented: “I don’t know Thomas overly close but then I did play a lot with him in my early years when I was competing in Europe, and I’ve always enjoyed him and had fun in his company.
“I am sure all the European Tour players feel exactly the same way about Thomas hence his appointment.
“He’s certainly the veteran who’s been around a lot of European Ryder Cup teams so I’m sure whoever makes his team will be happy to play under his leadership.”
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