Oxford United were handed a tricky first round tie in the Capital One Cup after being drawn away to Charlton Athletic. The Us will visit Chris Powell’s side at The Valley the week commencing 5th August, just two days after the start of the nPower Football League season.

The last time United faced the Addicks was also in the English League Cup, when Oxford prevailed on penalties following a goalless stalemate at the Valley back in 2002. However, the Championship side will be firm favourites after an impressive ninth place finish last season following their promotion from Division Three last year.

Meanwhile, there were some other interesting draws in the first round of the Capital One Cup as fierce rivals Swindon Town host fellow League Two side Torquay United. Newly promoted Newport County face a daunting task as they travel to Brighton & Hove Albion, whilst Mansfield Town travel to Tranmere Rovers. The tie of the round sees south-coast rivals AFC Bournemouth, who gained promotion to the Championship last season, welcome League Two bound Portsmouth at Dean Court.

And finally, Us Chairman Ian Lenagan has been elected onto the Football League board as League Two’s representative. Lenagan replaces Barnet’s Tony Kleanthous following the Bee’s relegation to the Conference at the end of last season, and joins Notts County’s Chief Executive James Rodwell as the only new additions to the eight-man board.

United’s Chairman was delighted with his appointment: “To be elected to the board of The Football League is a proud moment for me personally and for Oxford United Football Club.

“I will be working hard as part of the board to help make The Football League even stronger.”