Andy Murray Decided on Ivan Lendl Replacement

Andy Murray has confirmed he has a first choice candidate in mind in his bid to name a new coach.

The British no. 1 parted ways with Ivan Lendl after a two year partnership in March and has since been in discussions with a number of candidates over a replacement.

Murray has previously indicated he could announce his new coach before the defence of his Wimbledon title in June and would appear to have taken a step closer in narrowing down the shortlist.

When asked if he has a name in mind, Murray told BBC Sport: "Yes, pretty much. I've got an idea of exactly what I want."

Murray added that he has spoken to his preferred candidate and while they have not been formally offered the role yet, the 27-year-old believes both parties are keen to make the partnership happen.

"There are always a few complications, but as long as the desire from both people is to work together then hopefully it can happen soon."

When asked if that desire was present in the candidate, he responded: "It seems that way."

On Friday Murray was drawn against Kazakhstan's Andrey Golubev in the first round of the French Open which begins this weekend and could face Swiss third seed Stanislas Wawrinka in the quarter finals and defending champion Rafael Nadal in the semis after being drawn in the same half as the duo at Roland Garros.

Murray will be joined in Paris by James Ward, who became the first British man in over 40 years to progress through qualifying into the first round following victory over Slovenia's Blaz Rola.