The Ryder Cup is less than a month off and Paul Azinger and Nick Faldo, captains for the American and European sides, have to fill out the rosters by the end of the week. I've pretty much accepted the fact that it doesn't matter who Azinger names with his picks (well, unless they're Europeans), the U.S. will probably lose.

Faldo, however, has some intriguing options facing him. Colin Montgomerie, arguably one of the best Ryder Cupper in history of the event, is lobbying for a spot on the team even though he's had a forgettable season, and hasn't played in two weeks.

While we wait for that drama to play out, rumors are afoot about other potential candidates:

Nick Dougherty was brave enough to articulate what most were thinking here on the range yesterday as the news circulated of Ian Poulter's late withdrawal from this week's Johnnie Walker Championship. "All I can think of is that he's been given the nod," said Dougherty. And so the great Ryder Cup conspiracy theory gathered momentum. True or not true it has given the build-up to Nick Faldo's wildcards announcement on Sunday night a fascinating edge.

A strong finish at the Walker would qualify Poulter on the Ryder Cup squad based on points. That he has since withdrawn means that either he's a captain's choice, or he's just given up on making the team. The latter sounds like a stretch, which makes the former more likely.

Ultimately, I'm not sure if it matters who Faldo names; the Europeans have owned the Americans, and if not for that pesky Justin Leonard, the '99 Cup never would've happened. That said, I'm guessing Faldo will keep Monty off the team, if for no other reason than spite.