Soccer-Holders Newcastle draw Bradford City in League Cup third round

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Premier League - Newcastle United v AFC Bournemouth - St James' Park, Newcastle, Britain - February 17, 2024 General view of a Newcastle United corner flag inside the stadium before the match Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith/File Photo

LONDON (Reuters) -League Cup holders Newcastle United will begin the defence of their title with a home tie against third-tier Bradford City while Liverpool, last season's runners-up, host Southampton.

Newcastle, whose win over Liverpool ended a 70-year domestic trophy drought, were given a bye into the third round along with the other Premier League clubs involved in either the Champions League or Europa League.