David Felgate has received the backing of Tim Henman Analysis: An impossible job?

Felgate succeeds Frenchman Patrice Hagelauer who resigned in December after four years in the post.

Felgate was Henman's coach for almost 10 years and his candidature was strengthened when the British number one named the 39-year-old as his preferred choice.

"I am very excited to have this opportunity in what I consider to be one of the top jobs in world tennis, not just in Britain," Felgate said.

"I believe that Patrice has implemented some lasting reforms.

Felgate: No more excuses

"But of course I will have my own ideas on how we get the best out of our national training department and the players themselves."

After splitting with Henman in 2001, Felgate briefly worked with Belgium's Xavier Malisse before taking up a job with management company IMG.

HAVE YOUR SAY How typical that they chose a man behind a nearly champion, instead of a true champion like McEnroe From Jon, England Join the debate

LTA chief executive John Crowther said he was delighted by Felgate's decision to take the job.

"This is a key role in British tennis and I am certain that David is the best person to build on the foundations laid by Patrice over the last four years."

Earlier this week Henman said on his official website that he wanted to see a British person in the role.

"David has lots of experience at the top level of the game and knows exactly what's required to compete with the best in the world," he said.

"He also has a very good idea of the politics involved in tennis and therefore he'd be going into the job with his eyes open.

"He's also not afraid to say what he thinks and he's as dedicated as they come."

Former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe says he was disappointed British tennis chiefs snubbed his offer of help.

It does seem to me, though, in sports in general, there is a lot of recycling of the people John McEnroe

McEnroe says he was prepared to play a part-time role within the organisation after discussions with Crowther.

"I was interested in working on a limited basis, inspiring the kids in some way, but I have heard nothing," the American told The Times newspaper.

McEnroe said he respected Felgate's achievements, but questioned whether his appointment was a progressive step.

"He did a good job with Henman, he's been around the game a long time, he obviously loves it and that's what counts," said McEnroe.

"It does seem to me, though, in sports in general, there is a lot of recycling of the people who are out there, instead of being more bold."