A referee both sides are familiar with this season is set to take charge of Watford's lunchtime derby showdown at Luton Town on Saturday.

Josh Smith has been appointed to officiate the 12.30pm kick-off at Kenilworth Road, the fourth time he will referee a Hornets fixture this season.

He last took charge of Watford on Boxing Day when they were beaten 2-0 at home by Millwall, but the previous two matches hold fonder memories for fans – the 4-0 victory at Stoke City in October and the 1-0 win over Sheffield United on the opening day of the campaign.

Smith has also refereed the Hatters three times this season – the 1-1 draw at Preston North End in February, the 3-2 defeat at home to West Bromwich Albion in January and the 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers at Kenilworth Road in September.

Saturday is due to be the referee’s 28th game of the 2022/23 campaign and he has previously issued a total of 116 yellow cards and four reds, one of which was shown to Hassane Kamara in the defeat to the Lions.

Smith will be Matthew Jones and Akil Howson on the sidelines, with Lee Swabey on fourth official duties.