GILLINGHAM have been handed a favourable home draw against Oxford United in the League Cup first round.

The League 2 side struggled last year under Ramon Diaz - who quit the club in May - to be replaced by Brian Talbot who brings fresh hope to the U's.

The teams last met in 2001 - at the Kassam Stadium - again in the League Cup where the Gills came from behind to win 2-1, courtesy of a last minute extra-time winner from Iffy Onuora.

Gills will be hoping to improve on last year's showing, where they suffered a shock defeat to Northampton Town, and earn a place in round two which will include the 12 Premiership teams not taking part in Europe.

The tie is due to take place in the week commencing August 22, on either Tuesday or Wednesday night.