Roger Federer has expressed his delight at beating Kei Nishikori at the ATP World Tour Finals in London.

The Swiss world number two defeated the Japanese 6-3 6-2 on Tuesday to all but seal his place in the last four of the tournament.

Federer returns to the court on Thursday when he faces Andy Murray in his final group match.

"I was expecting a very difficult match," he is quoted as saying by BBC Sport. "I've know him since he was 17 years old and always thought he was a great talent and he's going to have a great future. I'm very pleased with the way I played.

"I'm looking forward to playing Andy, as always. We've played some of the greatest matches for both of us, it's always a pleasure playing against him."

Murray must beat Milos Raonic tonight if he wants to boost his chances of making it through to the semi-finals.