Friendlies against World Cup hosts Qatar and Premier League Southampton are the stand-out fixtures from the Hornets’ pre-season schedule.

As expected, no matches will be played at Vicarage Road in order for the pitch to be prepared for the new season following the Elton John concerts, but Hornets fans will be able to watch Rob Edwards’ men in action against the Saints at Wealdstone’s Grosvenor Vale ground on Saturday, July 23.

The club have stated this marks the start of a year-long agreement that will see Watford Women play most of their home fixtures at the Stones’ Ruislip home.

Edwards will also take his players to Austria for a week-long training camp from July 5 to 10, with the match against the Qatar national side due to take place on the final day of the trip.

Watford’s current pre-season schedule is as follows:

  • Saturday, July 2: Watford v Cambridge United (1pm at London Colney, behind closed doors).
  • Sunday, July 10: Watford v Qatar (1pm in Austria).
  • Tuesday, July 12: Watford v Bolton Wanderers (3pm at London Colney, behind closed doors).
  • Saturday, July 16: Watford v Wycombe Wanderers (1pm at London Colney, behind closed doors).
  • Saturday, July 23: Watford v Southampton (3pm at Grosvenor Vale).