REAL MADRID coach Jose Mourinho has agreed to become the ambassador for Portugal’s bid to host the Ryder Cup in 2018 – even though they are in competition with Madrid.

“I always play to win and I know everyone connected to the 2018 Portuguese Ryder Cup bid is exactly the same,” said the former Chelsea boss.

Mourinho does not play golf, but has spoken about what staging the match at the Tom Fazio-designed Herdade da Comporta course would do for his country.

“Comporta is a region I have cherished and known since an early age, due to its proximity to my home town of Setubal.

“It is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, with its tranquil beaches and clear blue sea, with rice paddies as far as the eye can see and overwhelming natural beauty.”

IRISH AMATEURPat Errity of The European club secured one of the six places available at the European Senior Tour qualifying school final stage in Portugal yesterday for full playing rights for the 2011 season.

Errity finished in a tie for second, five shots behind American Tim Thelen, after carding a five-under final round of 66.

“”I’m delighted to get my card as it has been a target of mine for a few years now,” said Errity. “I hit the ball out of bounds on the eighth hole, but then holed from 140 yards with my next shot. The crowd thought it was an eagle! That kept my round going and I played well after that.”

Errity will turn professional before he joins the Senior Tour in March when he celebrates his 50 birthday.