Watford’s final game of the season against Stoke City may have little resting on it in terms of the teams' league fortunes, but it is set to be a significant day for the man in charge.

Lewis Smith has been appointed to referee Monday’s fixture at Vicarage Road, the first time he will officiate at Championship level.

It will continue an impressive rise for the Lancashire official, who made his refereeing debut in League Two in November before taking charge of his first League One fixture the following month.

He was given a taste of the Championship last month when he was fourth official for Swansea City's 3-0 win at Norwich City.

Smith has been in the middle for 32 matches this season, including National League, and has shown a total of 104 yellow cards and only one red.

He is due to be assisted by Craig Taylor and Mark Stevens, with Andy Davies the fourth official.