Argentine rifts in past

Argentina say the personality clashes that ruined their 2008 Davis Cup bid are behind them as they prepare for tomorrow’s final against Spain in Seville.

When the teams met in the final in Mar del Plata three years ago, the South Americans were firm favourites to claim their first title at home but their challenge was wrecked by infighting.

Juan Martin Del Potro, who is joined in the Argentina squad by Juan Monaco, Juan Ignacio Chela, Eduardo Schwank and David Nalbandian, said: “That’s in the past, completely in the past. After that (2008) final, we grew up, I’ve improved my game a lot and now we have another chance.

“Here it’s different players, different surface, different stadium and this time Spain is the favourite.

“It’s going to be different than Mar del Plata, if we are in good shape and remain focused.”

Spain’s Fernando Verdasco said he knew the Argentines were hurt by the defeat three years ago. “They were at home and favourites and it’s clear they want to pay us back,” he said. “But we are preparing as if we have never won it before.”