Paul McGinley was the captain of the Ryder Cup in 2014

Paul McGinley has said that there is a "very high probability" that this year's Irish Open could be played behind closed doors if it continues.

The tournament, which was scheduled to take place May 28-31 on Mount Juliet Estate, was postponed last month due to the coronavirus crisis.

It is believed that a possible fall date is being considered for the possible rescheduling of the event.

"It's a shame because we had a really nice pitch lined up," he told RTE Radio 1.

"I think we all point out that if we go the other way to get rid of this virus, it is very unlikely that the Irish government will allow massive gatherings at any sporting event.

"So if the Irish Open wants to continue on Mount Juliet later in the year think I chances are it will be without a mass meeting. That would be a very creepy place. "

The Irish Open would be the second Rolex Series event of the 2020 Tour and would be hosted by Graeme McDowell, with Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and defending champion Jon Rahm confirmed to participate.

Rory McIlroy lined up to play in this year's Irish Open

. Looking ahead to this year's Ryder Cup, which will take place in Whistling Straits in September, the former European captain said it is too early to predict whether it can continue

"Building the infrastructure takes it usually takes about four months, so it takes a long time before they have to cancel something, "he added.

"The great unknown, and here we need some guidance from governments, what are the chances that companies and 40 or 50,000 spectators are allowed on a golf course?

" If they will not be allowed , then we may have until August before a decision has to be made.

"As for putting together a team, that's the easy part. The players will practice, many of them live in Florida and are able to play on many of the courses there They are not isolated as we are here in Europe. "