Ronnie O'Sullivan makes John Higgins favourite for quarter-final clash

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But ahead of the clash with his fellow three-time former winner, O'Sullivan has warned he only came to the Betfred.com World Championship because he believes he can win the tournament.

He converted a 9-7 two-session lead over Shaun Murphy into a 13-10 triumph, ramming in early breaks of 128 and 119 and then surviving a scare when his potting went to pot and his opponent began to fight back.

The match was scrappy in parts, which frustrated O'Sullivan who said his own performance was "not good enough" and tempted him to throw in the towel before regaining focus.

However, the tussle with Higgins has all the hallmarks of a potential classic.

O'Sullivan said: "After the performances you'd have to make John favourite because he's got to be playing better than that. I'd be surprised if he's not."

The 35-year-old Englishman, who is receiving guidance from sports psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters as he looks to keep a level head, added: "It's a sad day for me if I start admitting I'm pleased to make the quarter-finals. I might as well turn it in.

"No matter how badly I've played, I've still come to win. Making the quarter-finals, it's not about that. It's about being the best, being the winner.

"There's no way I'm coming here to get to the quarters."

Higgins at one stage had struggled to shake off grinder Rory McLeod.

The 35-year-old Scot was struggling badly yesterday at only 6-5 ahead, but gradually he gained control over the 40-year-old qualifier from Wellingborough, who coaches Qatar's national team, and won 13-7.