GREAT Britain tennis coach Leon Smith believes Bolton Arena is the ideal venue to host the Davis Cup.

The top tennis team event will be held for the first time in Bolton later this week when GB take on Tunisia in a Euro-African Zone Group Two tie.

Smith, who took the captain’s role from John Lloyd last year, is no stranger to the Bolton Arena, having been there many times over the last decade.

“I know it really well as I have been to many tournaments including one of the top junior events in the world which is held there every year.

“I think the North West is passionate about tennis with strong clubs and quality players.

“The Arena is excellent from the players point of view and our hotel is close by.”

The dire state of men’s tennis has seen Great Britain plunge down the world order and defeat to Lithuania last year saw them relegated to playing the minnows.

Opponents Tunisia have only one singles player ranked in the top 1000, which should not pose any areas. I was delighted with his answer that he wants to stay and battle for his place. He is loving his time at Bolton.”

Gretar Steinsson will not be rushed back ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Aston Villa.

Paul Robinson has been filling in at right back after Sam Ricketts was ruled out for the season with a ruptured Achilles, with young Spaniard Marcos Alonso coming in at left back.

Steinsson was an unused substitutes against Newcastle after recovering from a troublesome knee problem, but Wanderers will take no chances with Iceland international.

Coyle said: “We had Gretar Steinsson back in the squad after he trained all week but I was wary of throwing him straight away because when we did that before and lost him after the Chelsea game.

“My focus is to make sure Gretar comes back into the group for the rest of the season.”

Meanwhile, former Wanderers striker Ricardo Vaz Te has completed a move to Hibernian on a deal until the end of the season.

The 24-year-old was a free agent after he was released from his deal with Greek side Panionios and impressed manager Colin Calderwood on trial at Easter Road.