Advantage UK for Bulgaria's tennis prospects

Five of Bulgaria's brightest young tennis prospects want to "defect" to Britain because they fear their prospects are being blighted by lack of funding in their homeland.

The players want to train and be coached here - and some even want to play for this country as UK citizens.

They are led by Galina Mihaylova, 22, a top player who has retired from the game to study business consultancy in Surrey. At her home near Hampton Court she said: "Although tennis is very popular in Bulgaria there is a lack of investment by the government and corruption is also a danger.

"There are five young players, including my brother, whose talent needs the nurturing and investment only possible here.

"Two already study here but don't want to be identified for now. With the help of the Lawn Tennis Association's coaching, plus the increased chance of sponsorship, they can take their talent to the next level."

Mihaylova has already had success as a coach with her 15-year-old brother. Last weekend Kaloyan won the singles plate and doubles at the junior international in Halton, Buckinghamshire.

At his sister's home, where he lives, he said: "I feel my best future prospects lie in England. I'd like to take out citizenship and play for this country."

His sister added: "Tennis players have a short shelf life and unless you're in the top few the future is uncertain.

"I realised I'd never be a star so deci- ded to focus more on coaching. I took Kaloyan under my wing because he has the talent to make it to the top."

An LTA spokesman said: "Every case needs to be looked at on its merits. But this is really a matter for the International Tennis Federation."

The ITF said: "There is nothing to stop the youngsters playing for the UK. But they must have a UK passport, residency of at least 24 months and not have represented another nation for 36 months."