Ferrer: Argentina is favourite

Spaniard David Ferrer believes Argentina is favourite to win the Davis Cup final when the two countries meet in Mar del Plata next month.

Argentina has never won the tournament but was runner-up two years ago and Ferrer, who played in the ATP tournament in the Argentinean capital in 2003, 2004 and 2005, believes home advantage could play a key role.

"They are very strong at home and the fans are very noisy. Maybe for that they are favourites," Ferrer told Buenos Aires' Clarin newspaper.

"I would like to have that public on my side, but we are not scared. We're going to try not to let it affect us."

However, Spain does have an ace up its sleeve too - world No.1 Rafa Nadal - and Ferrer was full of praise for his team-mate.

"In our team there's a good atmosphere," he added. "We are respected. To be on his side gives you an enormous strength."

Ferrer is set to play in the Madrid and Shanghai Masters before travelling to Mar del Plata for the Davis Cup final which takes place from November 21 to 23.