Murray sets his sights on Del Potro

Murray is struggling for form (GETTY IMAGES)

Juan Martin del Potro's continuing wrist problems will give Andy Murray the chance to reclaim his No 4 position from the Argentine in the world rankings at next week's Rome Masters. Although he moved ahead of Murray in yesterday's updated list, Del Potro has not played since the Australian Open and is a doubtful starter for Rome after pulling out of this week's tournament in Barcelona because of tendinitis in his racket wrist.

Having reached the quarter-finals in Rome and the semis in Madrid and Paris last year, Del Potro has many ranking points to defend. Murray, who reached the second round in Rome 12 months ago and the quarters in Madrid and Paris, has not requested a wild card into the Barcelona tournament. He is training in the city.

Rafa Nadal pulled out of the Barcelona event last night.