16th September 2007
Gilbert has played down any tensions but it would be understandable if the presence here of sports psychologist Roberto Forzoni, who has been helping Murray overcome the negative thoughts about his wrist, was a problem for the coach.
Forzoni has a contract with the Lawn Tennis Association to work three days a week with British players at the National Training Centre in Roehampton but is here to impart his wisdom to Murray.
After beginning his career as a coach in non-League football around London, Forzoni decided to specialise in psychology and has gone on to work with clubs such as Crystal Palace, Charlton, Brentford and West Ham. Reading manager Steve Coppell has been a regular employer of his services.
Referred to by Murray as “the bald man”, Forzoni formally joined the LTA this month. He was in the stands on Monday and will be there when Murray plays Bjorkman as a temporary member of the Scot’s entourage.
Gilbert is also on the payroll of the LTA and, providing his man stays injury-free, should have every expectation of a strong finish to the season when Murray will be fresher than his rivals.