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Michael van Gerwen, James Wade and Raymond van Barneveld all moved into the last eight of the UK Open with wins on Saturday evening.

van Gerwen will meet Phil Taylor after defeating Terry Jenkins in Bolton.

The Dutchman saw off Jenkins 9-3 before being drawn against world number one Taylor in a repeat of the World Championship and Premier League finals.

I am happy to play anyone,” said van Gerwen, who won has recently won the Premier League, Dubai Darts Masters and a European Tour Event.

“I am used to winning at the moment and I am feeling confident ahead of the final day.”

Wade cruised past John Henderson to set up a sixth round clash with Andy Hamilton.

‘The Machine’ triumphed 9-4 against the Scotsman as he bids to win the tournament for a third time.

“I wasn’t at my best and it was lucky for me that John wasn’t either,” said Wade, the 2008 and 2011 winner.

“There is massive strength in depth in the PDC at the moment so it is a huge achievement for me to be in the quarter-finals.

“I’ve just been taking one game at a time and that is all I can continue to do.”

van Barneveld saw off defending champion Robert Thornton in a thrilling last 16 battle.

The Dutchman won 9-7, averaging over 100 in the process.

“I’m very happy,” said van Barneveld. “The way Robert has being playing, I knew I would have to hit that kind of average to beat him and it was a massive relief when that last dart went in.

“I’m in the quarters again so that is the most important thing. I’ll go and rest and to be ready for what will hopefully be a long day tomorrow.”

The draw for the semi-finals will take place following the quarters on Sunday afternoon.

By Chris Murphy

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