Local favourite John Isner has defeated Fernando Verdasco of Spain 7-6 3-6 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals of the Indian Wells Masters.

The American made hard work of the first set, edging it in a tie-break before surrendering the second to his opponent.

However, it was Isner who dug deepest to take the decider, wrapping up the match in just less than two hours to progress into the last eight of the tournament.

Isner will take on Ernests Gulbis in the next round.