Casey puts Cup thoughts aside

Paul Casey rued a missed opportunity at the Barclays Classic and has now put Ryder Cup thoughts to the back of his mind.

The Cheltenham-born ace started the final round just one shot off the lead, tied for second, but failed to make up the ground over the last 18 holes and had to settle for a share of seventh after a closing one-over-par 72.

"These golf courses are so difficult, week in and week out," Casey said. "It makes you a great golfer, and you've got great fields. So you just have to be very patient, and opportunities come along.

"I felt that was an opportunity today, and I'm annoyed at myself - I probably let it slip by a little bit."

The 31-year-old has opted to stay in America rather than play at the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles, at the end of which Nick Faldo will announce his two wildcard picks for the Ryder Cup at Valhalla.

"The Ryder Cup is at the back of my mind right now," Casey went on. "I was trying to go out and win a golf tournament.

"You know, I'd love to be on that team. Darren has put the cats amongst the pigeons by winning. That was a great win - went out there from the front, extended the lead. It was impressive stuff.

"We've got (Ian) Poulter as well, who is just outside. It's going to be tough."