London, Dec 19(ANI): American Ryder Cup captain Corey Pavin has said that he wants World No. 1 Tiger Woods in his team at Celtic Manor in October.

He is hoping that Woods will be available as his United States team defends the Ryder Cup against Europe at Celtic Manor in Wales next October.

“To not have the best player in the world weakens the team. That does not mean we can’t win without him because obviously we did last time, but you always want the best player in the world,” he added.

He also emphasized that his view of Woods has not changed following the exposure of his extra-marital affairs, and has no doubt that he will be a force again.

“Everybody makes mistakes. I’m not going to sit here in judgment. I just hope things work out for him and his wife Elin. He’s come back from injuries and setbacks and done fine,” The Daily Express quoted Pavin, as saying.

“Tiger’s obviously a very strong-minded individual and I don’t think he will play any differently when he comes back,” he added.

According to reports, Woods can take his break from golf safe in the knowledge that his place at the top of the rankings will be preserved for at least a year.

He currently has an average of nearly seven points better than his closest rival, fellow American Phil Mickelson, and having had seven victories this year after returning from knee surgery, he will not start losing points heavily for another 12 months. (ANI)