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Tim Henman surprised by 'one-man' Great Britain's Davis Cup run

Andy Murray celebrates his victory over Australia's Bernard Tomic in the Davis Cup
Image: Andy Murray celebrates his victory over Australia's Bernard Tomic in the Davis Cup semi-final

Tim Henman admits he did not think it was possible for Great Britain to reach a Davis Cup final with a "one-man team".

Andy Murray has led GB to four victories in the World Group over the last two years, culminating in their run to the final this year.

The only winning rubber Murray was not involved in was James Ward's victory over the USA's John Isner, with the Scot winning six singles matches and two doubles alongside brother Jamie.

Jamie Murray (right) and Andy Murray of Great Britain celebrate during Day Two of the Davis Cup Semi Final match
Image: Jamie Murray (right) and Andy Murray in Davis Cup doubles action

Britain will now take on Belgium on a clay surface in Ghent this weekend - security concerns permitting - in a bid to secure the title for the first time since 1936 and former British No 1 Henman is surprised they have progressed this far due to the lack of strength in depth.

Henman, who has cancelled his own trip to Ghent for the final, said: "I didn't think it was possible. The theory is that one-man teams don't win the Davis Cup.

"There have been other players who have played their part - Jamie Murray, James Ward and Leon Smith the captain - but when you look at what Andy's done, it's been phenomenal. And he's got a great opportunity, and it's one that he won't want to miss out on.

"I think they'll win 3-1 but it won't be easy. Away on clay is never easy."

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Murray was criticised by former GB Davis Cup captain David Lloyd at the weekend for not doing enough to promote the growth of tennis in Britain.

The Scot gave his response on Twitter on Sunday night, posting a video of himself doing strenuous training and thanking his fans for their support and "for seeing today's criticism for exactly what it was". He followed the message with the hashtag 'bitter'.

And Henman, who attracted the same criticism from Lloyd, has given his backing to Murray.

Tim Henman and Andy Murray
Image: Tim Henman believes Murray is doing enough for British tennis

He said: "I think I'd probably disagree with that, considering he's carried the team to the Davis Cup final.

"He's won Wimbledon, the US Open, Olympic gold. That's the most important thing for him to do, to concentrate on his preparation and performance on the court.

"There are others that need to be responsible for taking advantage of the interest he creates in the game. But if you ask me, I think Andy Murray is doing all right."

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