Lee Westwood

His comment follows the news that Bernhard Langer, who guided Europe to a record 18½-9½ victory over the US at Oakland Hills in September, had confirmed on Wednesday that he would not make himself available for the captaincy in 2006.

Europe plans to select its captain on March 1 during the Dubai Desert Classic and announce the choice the next day.

With Langer now out of the picture, Woosnam and Faldo are the clear-cut front-runners to lead Europe at the K Club in Dublin next year although Sandy Lyle and Jose Maria Olazabal have also said they would be available.

Speaking at this week's launch of the British Masters at the Forest of Arden, Westwood said he favored Faldo, who was his partner when he made his Ryder Cup debut at Valderrama in 1997.

"I think they should all get it at some stage, but if I was asked to choose, I would say Nick first," Westwood said, adding, "but I think they will give it to Woosie.

"I think he has more support on the committee."

Westwood said the decision may come down to Faldo's record in 11 Ryder Cups against Woosnam's popularity.

"I would say Nick because he is the leading points scorer, has lots of experience, six majors, brought a lot of glory and would have the respect of anybody who plays," Westwood said.

"He says he wants it and it is the right time, so he should get it. But I am sure there are still some anti-Faldo people. He has always been very single-minded and not endeared himself to people maybe as much as Woosie has."

Teammate Darren Clarke said it was difficult to choose between the two and suggested one should be chosen for the 2006 match and the other for 2008.

"If there was a piece of paper I would tick both boxes," he said. "On past results you have to slightly favor Nick and in terms of relationship with the players, Woosie would probably be slightly ahead."