Australia went up 1-0 against France in the Davis Cup final as Mark Philippoussis beat Sebastien Grosjean in straight sets in Friday's opening match at the French city Nice.

The Australian first-choice singles player routed the young Frenchman 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in one hour and 58 minutes.

The second singles being played on Friday was between US Open semifinalist Cedric Pioline and 18-year-old Aussie Lleyton Hewitt. (Xinhua)ue Soccer); nor, as far as we are aware, have Middlesbrough Football Club," Stein said.

Middlesbrough have also denied any US link with the England international.

"It is an old story, and there is no truth in it whatsoever," said club spokesman Dave Allen.

"Paul is under contract until the end of next season. He is a Middlesbrough player and will remain a Middlesbrough player." (Xinhua)