London, Sep 25 - The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has revealed that former Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is 'unquestionably loyal' to Great Britain after the tennis ace was criticised for supporting Scottish independence.

The online abuse directed at Murray after he declared his backing for the yes campaign has been described as vile. Michael Downey , chief executive of governing body LTA, said that he welcomed the Scot actively engaging in the democratic process.

Downey said that Murray is entitled to a view on the future of his country. The LTA took the unusual step of coming out in support of the world number 11 because it felt unable to remain silent while Britain's best player was enduring what was no doubt a tough week, The BBC reported.

Just hours before the polls opened for the Scottish referendum last Thursday, Murray had tweeted that it is huge day for Scotland, adding that no campaign negativity last few days totally swayed his view on it and he is excited to see the outcome.

The British number one has since said that he was disappointed with the way he tweeted his support for independence, although he does not regret giving an opinion.

Downey, a Canadian who was appointed as LTA chief executive in September 2013, said that Murray has been unquestionably loyal to British tennis, adding that his on-court brilliance demonstrates time and again that he'll push himself to the limit to win for Britain, whether that's for British Olympic gold or in the GB Davis Cup team.

Murray plays world number 141 Somdev Devvarman, of India, in the second round of the Shenzen Open in China on Thursday. He has three tournaments remaining to boost his ATP ranking and clinch a top-eight qualifying place for the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals at the O2 in London from 9-16 November.

Downey further said that they also look forward to Murray continuing to make Britain proud of his on-court achievements, adding that they are darn lucky to have the Scot wear their colours, as he knows other tennis nations would trade for him in a heartbeat. (ANI)