ABU DHABI: Jose Maria Olazabal will captain Europe's Ryder Cup team when it defends the trophy against the US at Medinah in 2012. The 44-year-old Spaniard, who played in seven Ryder Cups and was Europe's vice-captain for the last two matches, was appointed captain Tuesday. He succeeds Colin Montgomerie, who guided Europe to a 14 1/2-13 1/2 victory over the US at Celtic Manor, Wales, in October. Olazabal was the unanimous choice among Europe's leading players. His appointment was announced by George O'Grady, chief executive of the European Tour. Davis Love III is expected to be picked as the next captain of the US Ryder Cup team Thursday. Love was a vice captain in October. Olazabal has struggled with chronic back problems in recent years, limiting his appearances on tour to just three events in 2010.