Jonny Evans has moved to play down the prospect of Manchester United contesting the Capital One Cup final with bitter rivals Manchester City in February.
The Premier League giants avoided each other in the semi final draw, as David Moyes's men were paired with Chelsea's conquerors Sunderland, while City face West Ham United in the last-four stage.
Nevertheless, Evans - who enjoyed two loan spells with the Black Cats - is refusing to look beyond the challenge of his former club before dreaming of a potential showdown with Manuel Pellegrini's men.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the Northern Ireland defender said: "That is dangerous talk. I watched Sunderland beat Chelsea the other night and not only are they fighting for Gus Poyet, but he has also got them playing some good football.
"They controlled large parts of the game and had some good possession. It will be a more difficult game than people will imagine. I loved my time at Sunderland."
Both first-leg semi finals are scheduled to take place on January 6, before the participants clash again a fortnight later to determine who progresses to the final.
United secured their progression with the 2-0 victory over Stoke City on Wednesday night, while City coasted to a 3-1 win over Championship outfit Leicester City.
Shane Callaghan
