John Lloyd quits as Davis Cup captain

JOHN Lloyd has quit his role as Great Britain's Davis Cup captain following an embarrassing defeat to Lithuania earlier this month.

TIME TO GO: John Lloyd has quit his post as Davis Cup captain in the wake of the humiliating defeat to Lithuania (Getty Images)

Great Britain have lost five of their last eight ties under Lloyd's stewardship and after the defeat to Lithuania, they must face Turkey in July and secure victory to avoid relegation to the lowest tier of the competition.

"I am very proud of my time as Davis Cup captain and grateful to all the players for their support," said Lloyd, 55.

"I've been a Davis Cup player, captain and now it is time to become a fan."

American coach Paul Annacone will also step down from the Davis Cup set-up but will remain in his role as head coach of men's tennis at the Lawn Tennis Association.

Among the candidates to replace Lloyd are former US Open finalist Greg Rusedski, who has captained the junior Davis Cup side and is current coach of British number three James Ward.

Great Britain have not won a tie since Tim Henman and current British number one Andy Murray played together against Croatia in September 2007.

Meanwhile, Murray, who made clear his coach Miles Maclagan was not available for the job, has urged the LTA to consult the players before appointing the next captain.

"It's important the players have some say.

"But there's no rush, there's not another match for four months. It's important they take their time and get the right person - and I'm sure they will."