Lloyd backs Brits after tough draw

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If Britain win the home fixture, which takes place from September 21-23 at a venue yet to be decided, they will rejoin the elite group of tennis nations, but defeat would see them start 2008 in Group I.

"It could have been easier, but it's a home draw and I'm taking the view that if you get a home draw to get back into the World Group, it's a good draw," said Lloyd.

"There are teams who are perhaps a bit weaker but on the other hand it could have been away at Chile or away to Croatia even.

"I'm happy with it and the players we have now are world class.

"Looking from the perspective of Croatia I don't think they would too happy with their draw - Great Britain away.

"It is the hardest draw - looking at world rankings and stuff - but I'd back our guys against anyone in the world."

"If we get into the World Group we'll have to play teams like Croatia anyway and, yes, maybe it's a year early, but we're going to be ready."

Lloyd's team confirmed their place in the play-offs with a comfortable 4-1 win over Holland last week, but the team that swept to victory in that fixture has been hit by the loss of the retired Greg Rusedski.

"I was really surprised when he stopped," said Lloyd. "I thought it would come down to whether we beat Holland. I was shocked when he said it but I respect his decision and it's a chance for the younger guys to step up."