VIRGINIA WATER, England -- World Match Play winner Paul Casey, whose ace at the Ryder Cup helped Europe capture another lopsided victory over the United States, has been named Player of the Year by the European Tour.

Casey won three titles on Tour only to finish behind Padraig Harrington on the money list. With three points, the Englishman was one of the stars of Europe's 18 1/2-9 1/2 victory at Ireland's K Club, however, while Harrington mustered only half a point.

Casey was also very close to finishing top of the money list.

Having won U.S. $1.95 million to capture the Match Play title at Wentworth, Casey went to the Volvo Masters in the lead. But he was struck down by food poisoning and began with a 5-over 76. He finished tied for 21st while Harrington tied for second to finish top of the money list.

Casey rediscovered his game in 2006, having gone four months without making a single cut in 2005.

"To win three times during the 2006 season and play a part in Europe's record-breaking third successive Ryder Cup victory before finishing runner-up to Padraig in the Order of Merit was extremely satisfying, although it goes without saying that I was bitterly disappointed to miss out on the Harry Vardon Trophy," he said.

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