Fernando Verdasco next up for Andy Murray in Valencia

ANDY MURRAY will face Fernando Verdasco in the semi-finals of the Valencia Open today after a comfortable 6-4, 6-2 win over Albert Montanes.

Verdasco defeated fellow Spaniard Tommy Robredo 6-3, 6-2.

After his match, Murray said: "I think I played well today, and I hope I can play even better because Verdasco is at a very high level."

Murray was sporting an ice-pack on his wrist at his post-match press conference but played down concerns, adding: "It doesn't really hurt, but it's always good to make sure you take care of parts of your body that have shown some kind of a weakness in the past."

Murray, 22, who is the top seed for the event, was a little short of his best in the opening set against Montanes.

He broke in the first game but allowed the local hero back in with a break in the sixth game.

Murray broke again two games later with a superb drop shot and served out for the set.

The British No.1 forced Montanes to save three break points in the first game of he second set before finally winning the game.

He broke against for a 4-0 lead and, despite Montanes earning a break point with Murray serving at 5-2, closed out the match.