Den of Inequity

At last some news! Today's draw for the first round of the League Cup (now named the Carling Cup after a new sponsorship deal with Coors) has given United an away game at Millwall. Oxford don't have a brilliant record at the Den (New or old), having only won there twice in over twenty meetings, but this being a one-off cup tie could mean the form book becomes irrelevant. The teams have met once before in London in the League Cup, drawing 3-3 at the Den in 1981 before United won the replay at the Manor. There will be no replay in this game as the format of this competition means that if the scores are level after 90 minutes the game will go to extra time and then penalties. The game will be played on either Tuesday 12th or Wednesday 13th August.

Dwight signs pro

Third Year Scholar midfielder Dwight Ciampoli has signed a three month professional contract with United. Ciampoli is one of three youth players to have been offered professional terms, with goalkeeper Simon Cox already having signed for a year. The third player, centre half Rob Lovegrove, is expected to sign for three months in the next few days.

Ciampoli has impressed in his appearances for the Reserves and under-19 sides. He is possibly the best set-piece taker at the club and, should he perform well over the next three months, could be a valuable addition to the squad. His advancement shows the value of a decent youth system.