Lloyd confident for Croatia clash

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Lloyd admitted the draw had not been kind to his team but believes the fact the match is at home can turn the tide in their favour and help them secure the win which would see them start 2008 back among tennis' elite.

"I'm happy with it (the draw) and the players we have now are world class," said Lloyd. "It is the hardest draw - looking at world rankings and stuff - but I'd back our guys against anyone in the world."

He added: "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.

"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.

"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.

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

Lloyd also feels the possible absence of Croatia's star man Ivan Ljubicic could put the likes of Andy Murray and Tim Henman firmly in the driving seat.

Lloyd said: "After his last Davis Cup match Ljubicic announced his retirement - we don't know what to make of that yet, but if he keeps to that it gives a slightly different perspective.

"They still have good players but if a guy who is in the top 10 in the world is missing it is a different matter. Even so, I'd back our guys against anyone."