London, Jan 15(ANI): Paul McGinley has credited world number one Rory McIlroy for his support after being unanimously selected as Europe's Ryder Cup captain for the 2014 event at Gleneagles.

McGinley's undisputed selection as Euro Ryder team captain owed plenty to player power and particularly the strong public backing he received from McIlroy, the Guardian reports.

After an hour of Ryder Cup talks by the European Tour's tournament committee in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday evening, it was revealed McGinley had seen off the challenge of Sandy Lyle, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Paul Lawrie, as well as Colin Montgomerie, to take the post, the paper further reported.

Montgomerie was viewed as the most genuine threat to McGinley's aspirations but the support of McIlroy was crucial in the Scot not earning what would have been a controversial second stint as captain, the paper said.

McIlroy duly watched from the back of the room as McGinley was unveiled and the 46-year-old will face Tom Watson's United States as Europe look to retain the cup.

McGinley thanked McIlroy for his unequivocal support, adding he was lucky to have the Ulsterman have played under him in the Seve Trophy.

McGinley said McIlroy played a big card for him and he would always be thankful to him for his support.

McIlroy immediately expressed his delight over the committee's choice, adding he was thrilled for McGinley. (ANI)