Murray wary of Malisse malaise

The British number one knows from first-hand experience the dangers posed by the Belgian who reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2002 and the fourth round two years later.

Murray said: "He's really talented. He had quite a lot of problems with injuries over the last couple of years but I practised quite a lot with him in Bollettieri's (tennis academy)."

He added: "He obviously trains there and has done pretty much all his life. He probably isn't playing as well as he was when he made the semis here but he is a dangerous opponent who can play very well on grass."

A wrist injury kept Malisse out of action for six months last year when he managed to play only five tournaments.

But his game has been improving and, at 27, he still believes he can fulfil the potential which many observers once believed would bring a grand slam title.

Malisse, who for a time was coached by former Tim Henman mentor David Felgate, is relishing the challenge of playing the man who carries the expectations of the home nation.

He said: "I feel like I'm playing well. Hopefully, I can give him a tough match and come out on top.

"He has a good defensive game, but I like playing that kind of game."