Henman credits Murray after winning return to Tokyo

TOKYO, Oct 3 (Reuters) Tim Henman thrashed Canada's Frank Dancevic 6-2 6-1 at the Japan Open today in his first match in Tokyo for eight years -- and then thanked Andy Murray.

Henman credited his fellow Briton for his renewed zest for the game after reaching the third round at the tournament where he made his ATP Tour debut 12 years ago.

''I think Andy's had a positive effect in a number of different areas,'' 10th seed Henman told reporters. ''It's great to have another player share the spotlight.

''It takes a bit of the pressure off and it's great that at the end of my career I can play with a little less expectation on me.'' The 32-year-old Henman has lost his British number one ranking to Murray but beat the Scottish teenager on his way to the quarter-finals in Bangkok last week.

Murray is also among a strong field in Tokyo that includes world number one Roger Federer.

Henman has fond memories of Tokyo after qualifying for his first tournament at the 1994 Japan Open.

''The first time I qualified for an event was here in 1994 when I won two rounds and lost to Pete Sampras on centre court,'' Henman said.

''It's good to be back 12 years later and playing well. The level of my tennis has been good but the proof is in the results and they're still not where I want them to be.'' Henman received a first-round bye and will next play either seventh seed Robby Ginepri or Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro in the last 16.

''I think Ginepri will win and I'll probably go into that match as the underdog,'' said Henman, whose ranking has slipped to 55 from a career-high fourth in 2002.

''I'll try to play the same way as I did today and see what happens. You've just got to keep plugging away.'' REUTERS DH DS1223