Andy Murray books ATP World Tour Finals spot

Murray claimed his third title in just five weeks in Valencia on Sunday, and needed to beat Dimitrov to be certain of his participation in the season-ending London event which features the top eight available players in terms of this season's ranking points.

The British number one was imperious on serve throughout, refusing to relinquish a single break point all match, albeit his challenge was aided by his weary opponent at crucial points in both sets.

First, Dimitrov double-faulted to hand Murray the opener before the Bulgarian tamely netted at match point in the following set.

It was the pair’s first meeting since the 2014 Wimbledon quarter-finals, where Dimitrov ended Murray’s bid for successive triumphs at the All England Club.

"I'm pleased with the way I'm playing just now and hope it sets my up well for next season," said Murray. "I've done the first part and hopefully I can keep winning and moving up the rankings.

"Since the French Open I think I've played well. I lost against some of the best players that have ever played the game in the Slams this year.

"It's been a strong end to the year after a tough surgery and a hard beginning of the year. It's nice to get the spot in London - it's a great event to be involved in and a fun way to finish the year."

Murray next faces world number one Novak Djokovic in the last eight after the Serb came through his third round match with Gael Monfils.

It is a fantastic late-season surge by Murray, who had fallen outside the top 10 after struggling to recover his form following a back operation this time last year.

In the interim the Scot changed coaches and suffered early exits from Wimbledon and the US Open, but he appears to be back to something approaching his best.