Andy Murray's bid to win a first Australian Open title was again thwarted by Novak Djokovic.

Murray has now lost 11 of the pair's last 12 meetings and 22 out of 31 overall.

Here we take a look at five things the British number one can do to close the gap.

1. Have a rest

While most players were putting their feet up over Christmas and taking their end-of-season breaks, Murray kept training with the plan to coincide his time off with the birth of his first child in February. The world number two looked jaded at times in Melbourne and a few weeks away from tennis could be just what he needs.

2. Work on the forehand

Murray's forehand proved troublesome throughout the tournament and was particularly shaky in the first set of the final against Djokovic. When in the groove it can be a big weapon for the Briton, but he needs to regain some consistency and confidence in the shot if he is to avoid more disappointment against the toughest opponents.

3. Cut out the trash talk

Emotion is a natural part of Murray's game and it can be a great motivating factor when he uses it in the right way. By his own admission, however, he was too hard on himself here, cursing and grumbling often from the outset when matches were still very much in his control. A more positive mindset would provide more encouragement for himself and less for his opponents.

4. Be more aggressive

If Murray is to beat Djokovic it will be by attacking the Serb, not out-rallying him. Djokovic expressed some surprise at how 'neutral' Murray played at the start of their final and the Scot needs to bolder both in the weight of his shots and the variety of his approach. Touch and craft are two of Murray's greatest strengths, he needs to use them.

5. Become a father

The imminent birth of his first child and being away from his pregnant wife Kim proved emotionally very difficult for Murray at the Australian Open and he was relieved to be flying home. His focus will be restored when he returns and if Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer are anything to go by, fatherhood might just improve his tennis too.