Dan Evans sets up Roger Federer showdown

Britain’s number two Dan Evans has set up a showdown with Roger Federer in the third round of the US Open following an impressive victory over Lucas Pouille on Thursday.

The 29-year-old was the underdog heading into his clash with 25th seed Pouille, but he dug deep to claim an impressive 6-4 6-3 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 victory and secure his place in the last 32 at Flushing Meadows for the third time.

Evans’ reward for reaching round three will be a clash with 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer on Friday, although he is no stranger to facing the Swiss ace at one of the big four tournaments, as they also locked horns at this year’s Australian Open.

Federer won that meeting in Melbourne in straight sets, but Evans insists he will not be overawed by the occasion this time around and he is confident he can spring a surprise and, in doing so, equal his best ever showing at a Grand Slam event.

“I hope to enjoy the occasion and not just be part of the show,” Evans told the BBC. “I know Roger’s game pretty well, but have to put to the side that I’m playing him. It’s the third round of a major and I have the chance to reach the fourth round – I’m confident I can do it.”

Evans is priced at 5.50 to overcome Federer on Friday, while the five-time US Open champion is available at 1.13 to book his place in the last 16.