PARIS: Belgium have called up Frenchman Michael Llodra to help them prepare for the Davis Cup final against Great Britain in Ghent later this month.
Llodra gave the news himself Thursday at a press conference during the Paris Masters tournament he called to confirm his retirement from playing.
"I have been contacted by Belgium to help them for the Davis Cup final," he said.
"This is a very exciting challenge when you know how difficult it is to win that title. I would have preferred to do that last year with the French team, but I have a sort of second chance in a way. I will be part of the team having the trophy."
Llodra, better known for his doubles play, was part of the French team during last year's Davis Cup run, but he was not selected for the final in Lille which the hosts lost to Switzerland.
He said that he would work with the Belgian team in the two weeks leading up to the final, concentrating on doubles play.
"I was in four Davis Cup finals, and I was talking about this with Steve (Darcis). He liked, I think, my analysis of the final where you are under a lot of pressure, but you are able to play and win a final."
Led by Andy Murray, Britain will be trying to win the Davis Cup for the first time since 1936 when Fred Perry was the team leader. Belgium will be playing in the final for the first time since 1904 when they lost to Britain 5-0.
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