But in no way does the 45-year-old Scot think that a Ryder Cup career stretching back to 1991 is over.

"I do feel I have not played my last Ryder Cup, but I have to get my consistent game back," said Montgomerie.

"It will be harder next time, so I have to raise the bar as well. But I am determined to do that.

"Always you hope you might get picked because we all know what credentials I can bring to the Ryder Cup, but I think I was even fourth or fifth on the list."

By that Montgomerie said he felt not only the chosen pair Paul Casey and Ian Poulter were ahead of him, but also Darren Clarke and possibly US-based Carl Pettersson as well.

Asked if he thought the presence of heavyweights like himself and Clarke in the team room might have been a reason for Faldo going for two younger players he replied: "I don't think that was in his thoughts.

"I think he picked the two players he thought would get the most points. Let's hope they do.

"I would not say it's going to be punishment watching them. I will look forward to it - to see how people react and to learn how I might do it in the future."

Montgomerie is expected to be Europe's captain when the match is staged in Scotland at Gleneagles in 2014.