Andy Murray has claimed that Rafael Nadal is "always tough" to play against as the pair prepare to meet in tomorrow's Japanese Open final.

Great Britain's Murray advanced through to the final with victory over David Ferrer earlier today, while reigning champion Nadal reached the same stage with a win over Mardy Fish.

"I think [Nadal] has played some very good tennis the last couple of matches," Murray said after his match with Ferrer. "He's always tough.

"He won here last year, so he likes the conditions."

Murray has won 20 of his last 21 matches, with his only defeat coming in the semi-final of the US Open against Nadal.