An official who last refereed a game involving Watford more than 18 months ago is due to be in the middle when the Hornets aim to continue their superb run of form at Vicarage Road tomorrow night.

The EFL website has stated that James Linington has been appointed to take charge of the 7.45pm kick-off against Bristol City.

Linington last refereed a match involving Watford in the season before last when he took charge of the 1-0 defeat at QPR in March 2023.

The Newport official has taken charge of seven league and cup fixtures in the current campaign, issuing a total of 30 yellow cards.

Ian Cooper and Paul Hodskinson are due to be the assistant referees for tomorrow night’s match, with John Busby the fourth official.

Watford have taken 19 points out of a possible 21 at Vicarage Road so far this season and are unbeaten in all 13 home league and cup matches in which Tom Cleverley has been at the helm.