THE first-ever Premiership meeting between Saints and Pompey has been scheduled for the Saturday before Christmas on December 20 at St Mary's.

And the big return match has been set for Fratton Park on March 20 - although both dates will be subject to police approval.

Next season's Premiership calendar was officially unveiled this morning and it has already thrown-up a number of mouth-watering prospects.

On August 16 Gordon Strachan's men will be attempting to secure only their second opening day victory in 11 seasons when they travel to newly promoted Leicester, managed by ex-Saint Micky Adams.

But it is the South Coast clash with Pompey that will be most eagerly anticipated. The two clubs have not met in the league since 1988 in the old First Division.

SEE TODAY'S DAILY ECHO FOR THE COMPLETE FIXTURE'S LISTS FOR SAINTS, POMPEY AND THE CHERRIES.