With five rookies having already booked their places automatically through the European and World Points standings, Denmark's Bjorn opted to beef up his team with four players who boast 20 previous Ryder Cup appearances.

Englishman Casey, 41, returns after a 10-year absence from the Ryder Cup, while compatriot Poulter, 42, has been one of Europe's best-performing players in the team event.

Spain's Garcia, 38, will be making his ninth appearance while Swede Stenson has played in four previous matches.

The four captain's picks join Open champion Francesco Molinari of Italy, Britain's Olympic champion Justin Rose, rising English duo Tyrrell Hatton and Tommy Fleetwood, Spain's Jon Rahm, four-time major winner Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy, Swede Alex Noren and Danish debutant Thorbjorn Olesen.

RIGHT: Poulter boasts an exceptional record at the Ryder Cup and was a major player in Europe’s unlikely victory in 2012. PHOTO: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images.

Europe is attempting to win back the trophy after being well beaten at Hazeltine National in Minnesota in 2016 – its first loss in the biennial match since 2008.

US captain Jim Furyk has named 11 of his 12 players, with experienced duo Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson added to his lineup when he announced his wildcards on Tuesday.

A return to form and fitness for Poulter, known as "Mr. Ryder Cup", is a major boost for Bjorn.

Poulter produced a stunning display at the Medinah Country Club in 2012 when he inspired an unlikely comeback.

"He is a man for the occasion." Bjorn said after revealing his picks. "He is a special person. Both he and Sergio, sometimes you feel they should be footballers because they like that team sport environment."

The 42nd Ryder Cup takes place at Le Golf National in Paris from September 28-30.

European team: Justin Rose, Francesco Molinari, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Alex Noren, Thorbjorn Olesen, Paul Casey, Sergio Garcia, Ian Poulter, Henrik Stenson.