Derby County has been handed the biggest of big time cup ties after being paired with Manchester United as semi final opponents for the Carling Cup.

With two Premier League teams remaining in United and Tottenham, the draw has matched both up against Championship opposition with Spurs drawing Burnley.

Both games are to be played in the week commencing January 5. The return leg takes place two weeks later during the week of January 19 with Derby at home for their first leg.

The Rams have managed to account for Stoke, Leeds, Brighton and Preston so far but the red devils will present a much bigger challenge, one that brings with it a lot of attention and the opportunity to become another giant killer in the history of cup competitions.

In the other semi final Tottenham will be looking to go one better after making the final last season and will face tough opposition from a giant killing Burnley team who have already knocked out Premier League teams in Chelsea, Fulham and Arsenal.

Derby County have an awesome opportunity to go all the way in the cup but will have to beat Premierships defending champions to get the chance to lift the cup at Wembley.

Photo: Action Images

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