Walsall host Middlesbrough in cup

Walsall will host Championship outfit Middlesbrough in the Carling Cup after being handed a plum first round tie.

The Saddlers will take on Tony Mowbray's side in the week commencing August 8, just days after the start of the League One season.

Manager Dean Smith said: "It's a very exciting draw. Middlesbrough are a big club, who have spent a number of seasons in the Premier League.

"It will be a tough game but one that we're already looking forward to.

"You can't really ask for much more than a home draw in a cup competition and we've got that."