MARTINA NAVRATILOVA was yesterday named to succeed Billie Jean King as captain of the 1997 United States Fed Cup team.

Navratilova was appointed on the understanding that King may return to the post in 1998. "I only signed on for the year, and all I was asked for", said Navratilova. "When I was presented with the opportunity I couldn't say no.

King stepped down after guiding the US to the title with a 5-0 win over Spain in September.

Navratilova holds a remarkable 37-0 record in Fed Cup singles and doubles play. The Czech born US citizen is the only player to have won the Cup playing for two different nations.