US coach under scrutiny after split with Murray

Brad Gilbert’s role at the Lawn Tennis Association is to be reviewed following his split with Andy Murray.

Respected American coach Gilbert has parted company with the British number one amid reports of the duo’s deteriorating relationship.

The 46-year-old was also appointed as the LTA’s performance director, but whether he continues in that role following the end of his partnership with Murray is in doubt.

LTA chief executive Roger Draper said: “While working with Brad, Andy has broken into the top 10, won two ATP titles and reached three finals.

“Andy’s success is vital for British tennis and he has become an inspirational figure for followers of the sport.

“It’s essential that he has a team around him that will allow him to fulfil his potential.

“We are currently reviewing the situation in relation to Brad and will look to make a decision in the near future.”

Murray climbed from 36 in the world rankings to a career-high eighth during his 16 months under Gilbert’s guidance.

But their association was damaged by a series of disagreements and they were reportedly close to going their separate ways before the US Open in August.

Murray, who missed the French Open and Wimbledon with a wrist injury, thanked Gilbert for his work but insisted change was needed to advance his career.

The 20-year-old Scot said: “Despite being injured for almost four months this year, I am pleased with my 2007 results.

“I’m very grateful for the help that the LTA have given me by providing Brad Gilbert as a coach.

“But the time has come to move on to the next stage of my career.

“I’m ranked 11 in the world and can now afford to pay my own way.

“I’ll now hire a team of experts each to fulfil a specified role in the development of my tennis and fitness.”

Gilbert helped Andre Agassi win six Grand Slam titles and also steered Andy Roddick to glory in the 2004 US Open, before they too parted company.