Former Open Champion Darren Clarke has defended criticism over Rory McIlroy’s caddy – J.P Fitzgerald.

Darren Clarke defends criticism over Rory McIlroy’s caddy J.P. Fitzgerald. (Photo – www.golffile.ie)

SKY Sports had the knives out for Fitzgerald in the aftermath of McIlroy’s second round 77, and that’s whether McIlroy will continue with his fellow Irish-born caddy.

There was one shot in particular when McIlroy horribly flew the fourth green on Friday using a 5-wood and took a penalty and returned to the tee to hit an iron on route to a double bogey.

However Clarke would not be drawn into the row suffice to say he praised Fitzgerald in the time he worked for Clarke that was capped with success in 2003 WGC – NEC Invitational.

“It is not my position to comment but I had J.P. on my bag before and he was a wonderful caddy, and I don’t listen to that stuff that might be going on now with him,” said Clarke.

“All I know is that when J.P. worked for me he was a fantastic caddy.  We won Firestone together and he was good caddy and great fun, so that’s all I’m saying.”