January 18, 2001

Aussie Mark Philippoussis has indicated he could be in line for a return to action next month but not early enough to play in Australia's Davis Cup tie against Ecuador starting February 9.

The world number 11 said that he has been able to train for about an hour a day on court after minor knee surgery in December revealed a slight tear in the lateral meniscus of his left knee.

He is now targeting the Memphis tournament in the United States starting on February 19 for his comeback to the ATP Tour.

The surgery resulted in Philippoussis' withdrawal from the Hopman Cup, 2001 Australian Open and the first round Davis Cup clash at Perth's Royal Kings Park (February 9-11).

But the big serving Australian believes he will return bigger and better after the layoff and has not ruled out appearing in the latter rounds of the 2001 Davis Cup.