Michael van Gerwen has revealed that he felt "emotional" after edging past Ian White in a thrilling contest at the World Matchplay.

The world number one found himself facing a 6-1 deficit before overcoming the Stoke-on-Trent thrower by a 16-13 scoreline, and the 2014 world champion believes that he can improve during the latter stages of the tournament.

The 26-year-old is quoted by PDC.tv as saying: "It's amazing to win a game like this. Ian played fantastic darts but I played really well and hit the doubles at the end, so it's a big pressure off my shoulders.

"To win a game like this is quite emotional and fantastic. Ian put me under pressure constantly and full credit to him. I was struggling at times and I know I can play better, but I'm glad to win this game and proud to be in the semi-finals again."

Van Gerwen, who finished runner-up to Phil Taylor last year, will play Peter Wright in the semi-finals on Saturday.