Former world number one Jim Courier has replaced Patrick McEnroe as the U.S.Davis Cup captain.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• Jim Courier is appointed as the new captain of the U.S. Davis Cup side
• Courier replaces Patrick McEnroe who left his post after 10 years in September
• The 40-year-old Courier won the Davis Cup twice as a player in 1992 and 1995

(CNN) -- The American Tennis Federation (USTA) have appointed Jim Courier as the new captain of the U.S. Davis Cup side.

The 40-year-old Courier -- a former world number one -- replaces Patrick McEnroe, who left his post in September after a successful 10 years in charge which saw him guide the United States to victory in 2007.

Speaking on the USTA's official website, Courier, who won the Davis Cup twice as a player in 1992 and 1995, said: "It's something that I certainly aspired to.

"I definitely thought that being the captain would be something that I'd enjoy, and now I get to see if I will.

"I've spoken to all of the players throughout this process to make sure that they'd be comfortable if I was nominated to be the captain and to take their temperature to see what they were thinking about going forward," added Courier.

I definitely thought that being the captain would be something that I'd enjoy.
--Jim Courier

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Courier has already been part of the Davis Cup set-up, acting as assistant to McEnroe in the competition.

However, he now takes over the top post, with his first match coming away to Chile in March next year.

"We're certainly going to have a tough test down there, there's no doubt about that, playing in South America," added Courier.

American number one Andy Roddick welcomed the news, using his Twitter account to say: "Jim Courier new Davis Cup captain.... great choice!"

Meanwhile, Courier's long-time friend and rival Andre Agassi told the official USTA website: "Jim has the experience, integrity and focus needed to bring the U.S. Davis Cup team to new heights.

"I know first hand that a man with Jim's credentials as a warrior and a champion will bring out the best in our players and our fans."