Frank Lampard's first competitive game as Derby manager will kick-off the Sky Bet Championship campaign.

Former England midfielder Lampard, who took over as boss of the Rams three weeks ago, takes his team to Reading on Friday, August 3.

Derby also figured in the opening game of the 2017-18 campaign, drawing 1-1 at Sunderland. They went on to finish sixth but lost out to promoted Fulham in the play-offs, with Gary Rowett since leaving to join Stoke following their relegation from the Premier League.

The opening round of Championship matches, revealed by the EFL on Thursday morning, will be spread over four days.

There is an intriguing contest at Elland Road on Sunday, August 5, with Leeds hosting Stoke in what will represent the first competitive match with their new clubs for respective managers Marcelo Bielsa and Rowett.

Steve Bruce takes his Aston Villa side - beaten play-off finalists last month - to former club Hull on Monday, August 6, with the remaining nine Championship games taking place on the Saturday.

Relegated West Brom, who confirmed Darren Moore as their permanent boss following an impressive stint as caretaker, open at home to Bolton while Graham Potter's Swansea - the other team bidding for an instant top flight return - have an evening game at Sheffield United.

Of the promoted trio, League One champions Wigan start at home to Sheffield Wednesday, runners-up Blackburn are at Ipswich and play-off winners Rotherham go to Brentford.

Elsewhere, Birmingham host Norwich, Middlesbrough are at Millwall, Bristol City face Nottingham Forest at Ashton Gate and Preston welcome QPR.

FRI 3RD AUGUST

Reading vs Derby County

Championship, Sky Sports Football (20:00)

SAT 4TH AUGUST

Sheffield United vs Swansea City

Championship, Sky Sports Football (17:30)

SUN 5TH AUGUST

Leeds United vs Stoke City

Championship, Sky Sports Football (16:30)

MON 6TH AUGUST

Hull City vs Aston Villa

Championship, Sky Sports Football (19:45)

TUE 7TH AUGUST

Nottingham Forest vs West Bromwich Albion

Championship, Sky Sports Football (19:45)