Watford’s Under-18s have been drawn at home to Oxford United in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.

The date for the tie is still to be confirmed, although games must be completed by December 14.

The Hornets were knocked out at this stage of the competition last season, losing to eventual winners Manchester City.

Watford have a proud history in the FA Youth Cup, lifting the trophy in 1982 and 1989, while the U's enjoyed their best-ever run in the competition in the 2022/23 edition, reaching the quarter-finals. 

• Goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay made his debut for Oxford City last night but could not prevent them losing 2-1 at home to Alfreton in the National League North.

City are currently managed by former Hornet Ross Jenkins, and last night’s defeat leaves them sitting 20th in the National League North table.

Macaulay has joined the club on a one-month loan and will be in the squad when they host Farsley Celtic at the MGroup Stadium on Saturday.

Capped by England at Under-18 level and Sweden at Under-21 level, Macaulay spent the end of last season on loan at Hemel Hempstead.

• Jack Grieves has now clocked up 11 appearances for Ross County, five of them as a starter, during his season-long loan with the Scottish Premiership side.

• Albert Eames has made four appearances for Chelmsford City, all as substitute, during his loan spell with the National League South side.

• Watford's Under-21s ended a game with nine men for the second time this season during yesterday's 4-1 defeat away at Bournemouth. James Clarridge was sent off after 10 minutes and his fellow defender Ian Kamga had to leave the field due to injury right at the end after all the substitutes had been used.

The same thing happened with the Hornets lost 2-0 to Cardiff City in the Premier League Cup last month.

• For those who like to watch the up-and-coming Watford players, there is a chance to take in the Under-21’s Premier League Cup tie with Everton on Monday evening.

The game is at Kings Langley’s Orbital Fasteners Stadium at 7pm.