Forest Green Rovers will be welcoming Championship side Leeds United to The New Lawn as part of their preparations for the 2018/19 campaign.

Paul Heckingbottom will bring a first XI side to Nailsworth on Tuesday, July 17, as agreed back in January in the deal that saw FGR teenager Jordan Stevens head to Elland Road.

The game will be a 7.00pm kick-off to encourage families to attend and will be the first chance to see this summer’s new signings at The New Lawn.

Manager Mark Cooper is savouring the prospect of playing the former Premier League giants, with the game holding even more meaning to him with his dad, Terry, having played for Leeds during the 60s and 70s.

“It is a really prestigious game for us to announce as our first pre-season friendly,” he said.

“Leeds United are a massive club and historically for myself and my family, it’s a game that will mean a lot to us and it’s one I will look forward to.

“It is something that we negotiated into the Jordan Stevens deal that all adds into the income of the club, which is another plus.

“They’ll be bringing their first team, so it will be a strong test for my players and one we should relish.

“Leeds always bring a big following wherever they play so we’ll be hoping for a big crowd at The New Lawn.”