ST. ANDREWS, Scotland (AP) — Rory McIlroy is backing Darren Clarke as the next Ryder Cup captain for Europe.

McIlroy was among influential voices who threw support behind Paul McGinley when Europe was choosing a captain for Gleneagles. McGinley pushed all the right buttons as Europe sailed to victory over the Americans last week.

Clarke and Miguel Angel Jimenez have been mentioned as possible captains for Hazeltine in 2016.

McIlroy said on Wednesday that Clarke would be "the perfect man to lead the team there." The world's No. 1 player says it's important to have a captain who is known in America. He says the American fans always have liked Clarke.

A panel of the last three captains, a player from the tournament committee, and European Tour chief George O'Grady decides the next captain.