• Davis Cup

Smith expects Murray Davis Cup commitment

Andy Murray has played with a smile on his face for Great Britain during their recent Davis Cup ties © Getty Images

Enlarge

Related Links

• News: Murray left frustrated by 'messed up' schedule
  
• News: Murray masterminds GB whitewash
  
• News: Great Britain book Davis Cup ticket back to Group One
  
• Profile: Andy Murray

Great Britain's Davis Cup captain Leon Smith claims the "signs are positive" for Andy Murray to play a leading role upon their return to Europe/Africa Zone Group I.

Smith oversaw the promotion of his team back to second tier of the Davis Cup on Saturday, after the doubles partnership of Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins wrapped up a 3-0 victory over Hungary. Britain have now won their last four ties.

Crucial to their plight has been Murray, an almost-guaranteed success in the singles rubbers at this level, and Smith knows how important the world No. 4 will be when Britain step back into Group One. The Scot's busy playing schedule has prevented him playing half of the ties overseen by Smith so far, but Smith feels confident Murray will do everything possible to play next season.

"In terms of winning matches, we need Andy," the captain admitted. "He makes a pivotal difference but you've still got to respect his schedule because he's going deep in every slam.

"We'll speak next year and see how it fits in but he's really enjoyed it, he's been a great part of it and he loves Davis Cup. The signs are positive that he wants to play next year."

Smith also commands the role of head of men's tennis at the Lawn Tennis Association, and while he is happy with the latest achievement, he promised that there is still much work to be done on improving the state of the British game.

"When I started four ties ago, we should be winning those matches, and certainly when Andy plays. It's not about getting carried away but what's important is how we've done it," Smith said.

"We've got a very good team spirit, everyone wants to play and I think it shows when they go out on court that they genuinely want to be here. But it still doesn't lie where we're at with singles, it's not good enough."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.