New European Ryder Cup captain, Jose Maria Olazabal says he will not be claiming bragging rights should he finish in front of USA rival Davis Love 111 in this week’s Shell Houston Open.

Organisers of the $US 5.9m event have grouped the Spaniard and the American, along with Venezuelan sensation, Jhonattan Vegas for the opening two rounds.

Jose Maria Olazabal with PGA Tour's highly respected Communications Director, Doug Milne

Olazabal and Love 111 will face each other in Septmber next year at Medinah where Love 111 will be looking to win back the Ryder Cup from the Europeans.

“I can’t remember the last time I ever played alongside Davis and besides I thought they were supposed to put all the names in the hat and make a draw,” he said laughing.

“You’ve got Lee (Westwood) playing alongside Phil (Mickelson), so how the names come out like that is truly amazing.

“It’s the first time I’ve played alongside Davis for a very long time so it’s going to be an interesting two days.  But then it will be a good chance to get to know him a little better.”

Olazabal first contested the Shell Houston Open in 1989 when the event was played on the Woodlands course.

And after playing five events on the European Tour, including last week’s Andalucian Open, the double Augusta winning hero is looking forward to week despite his game not being razor sharp.

“The game is not always that sharp as I missed the cut last week so that doesn’t say many good things about it,” he said.

“But I am working hard on my game and this is why I am playing a few events hoping to regain the feel, the confidence on the golf course, and apart from that, I’m feeling okay.

 “So that’s a positive sign , and all I am trying to do is stay competitive and do the best I can.”

Olazabal continues to wear a blue bracelet as a constant reminder to good friend, Seve Ballesteros.

“We are always thinking of Seve and we all hope that he comes through what he has been enduring in first place,” said Olazabal.