Talking point

With both players struggling for form and fitness, today’s clash between Murray and Del Potro might come down to whose body stands up best to the battle. The Scot has come through two tough four-set matches so far and said after his win on Thursday that he will take confidence from his physical state. not retired in tears with a knee injury at one set all.

Del Potro is optimistic he will be fit to face Murray, saying: “I will have two days in order to rest and recover. It’s not new. Last year I had some problems with my groin. It’s not a source of concern.”

He is looking forward to having another crack at the world No 1.

“We played great battles last year, one each,” said Del Potro. “It could be another great battle if I feel good.”

Murray is getting used to having British company beyond the first couple of rounds at grand slams and this time it is Kyle Edmund who has joined him in the last 32.

The 22-year-old has used his huge forehand to bulldoze his way to straightsets wins over Gastao Elias and Renzo Olivo and now meets South Africa’s Kevin Anderson.

Edmund said of his main weapon: “That’s my game. There’s no point in having a shot like that and not using it. I’ve got to keep taking the initiative to bully players with it when I can.

“I know I’m going to have to play well to beat Anderson. He’s obviously got a big game, he’s a big guy. So Saturday I’ve just got to be on it.”