LONDON (AFP) - American Paul Annacone was announced on Wednesday as the new coach of Great Britain's Davis Cup tennis team after Peter Lundgren stepped down from the post.

Annacone, a former tour player, made his name as a coach by guiding the career of tennis great Pete Sampras before working with now-retired British star Tim Henman.

More recently he has been working within the British set-up and now takes over from Lundgren, who wants to spend more time with his ill father.

"I'm really looking forward being part of the Davis Cup team," said Annacone.

"It is a key competition in the tennis calendar and is always a unique occasion for everyone involved.

"In my role as head coach of men's tennis I've spent a great deal of time working with players who have already represented Great Britain and players who are on the fringes of the team.

"Hopefully this will enable me to have a positive impact in a very effective and efficient way.

"Winning in September and staying in the world group is obviously a key focus for us but just as vital is working with those younger players who may be capable of thriving in a Davis Cup environment in the near future."

British Davis Cup captain John Lloyd said: "I would like to thank Peter for all his work over the past 18 months. He has been a great asset to the Davis Cup team. Peter is keen to spend more time with his father who is unwell and our thoughts are with Peter and his family at this difficult time.

"I am very much looking forward to working with Paul Annacone in the build up to and during the Davis Cup tie in September and beyond.

"Paul has been working closely with many of our top players in his role as head coach and his knowledge and experience will be vital as we prepare for the World Group play-off."

Great Britain's opponents in September's World Group play-offs will be announced on April 16.

Lundgren, a Swede, coached Roger Federer early in the brilliant Swiss's career and then worked with the gifted but inconsistent Marat Safin.

However, his reputation suffered a setback when he was given a leave of absence by Britain's governing Lawn Tennis Association during last year's Wimbledon following reports he'd slurred his words at a coaching conference.