Nick Faldo begins his quest to regain a Ryder Cup place at the European Masters at Crans-SurSierre starting tomorrow.

As the Cup's most experienced player, Faldo had played in 11 consecutive Cup matches against the United States until he was ignored last year by European captain Mark James. The Briton, who holds the record both sides of the Atlantic for wins, points and matches played, will play at least 10 of his next 11 events on the European Tour in a bid to make sure of his place in Sam Torrance's side quickly.

The 43-year-old six-times major champion revealed his plans yesterday before playing his first event in Europe since the British Open.

"It's going to be tough for me because I obviously have to do my 15 statutory events on the US Tour next year," said Faldo.

"So I'll be playing a minimum of 10 of my next 11 events on the European Tour. That will virtually take me up to Augusta.

"It will be hard but I'm going to give it a whirl."

Faldo has already had a thumbs up from his captain after making the effort to play in Europe's first counting event.

Torrance said: "It's great seeing Nick here so early, making an effort to win some points. "Nick is 43 now. I had my best ever year in Europe when I was that age and also my best ever Ryder Cup and I know he is capable of anything."

Faldo begins his lengthy European Tour run by taking on current European number one Lee Westwood and number two Darren Clarke in Switzerland. Westwood will be defending his title.