Aussies deny camp split

Woodbridge, Philippoussis and Hewitt gather in Adelaide

Captain John Fitzgerald has defended Mark Philippoussis amid speculation of a split in Australia's Davis Cup team.

Philippoussis was a late arrival in Adelaide, where reigning champions Australia take on Sweden from Friday.

And he arrived on the back of criticism over his level of dedication from Pat Cash and team-mate Todd Woodbridge.

"This team is a very solid unit," said Fitzgerald. "We're not interested in trying to develop a story that we don't think that there's anything in."

Philippoussis is said to have made an angry phone call to Cash after his former coach suggested social activities had distracted him at the Australian Open.

If Pat Cash says it then we're not going to listen John Fitzgerald, Australia captain

And Woodbridge reportedly described Australian number one Philippoussis as the type of player who was "happy to give 70%".

But speaking alongside Woodbridge in Adelaide, Philippoussis insisted: "I don't think I have anything extra to prove.

"With this Davis Cup tie, and every other one, I go out to give 110% for myself, my team, my country."

Fitzgerald added: "I don't think we're interested in anything that borders on tabloid journalism.

"If Pat Cash says it then we're not going to listen, if he said something like that.

"I think this team is prepared, it hasn't affected us at all. We have a group of guys who enjoy each other's company, a group of guys who are trying to defend the Davis Cup."