Derby, Wolves and Preston: Honoured as founder members of The Football League

Accrington, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Derby County, Everton, Notts County, Preston North End, Stoke, West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers all contested the inaugural season, which kicked off on September 8, 1888.

And Football League chairman Greg Clarke will recognise the special role they played in the formation of the world's original league football competition as it celebrates its 125th anniversary.

Clarke and chief operating officer Andy Williamson will be on hand this weekend to make presentations to Blackburn, Bolton, Burnley, Derby, Notts County, Preston and Wolves ahead of kick-off in their respective Anniversary Fixtures.

Accrington Stanley were presented with a plaque - on behalf of their predecessor club Accrington FC - along with Everton, ahead of the sides' recent friendly that re-created the match-up on the opening day of the 1888/89 season.

"The supporters of The Football League's founder members should take great pride from the contribution their clubs have made to the game of football and we looking forward to marking that achievement at the weekend," Clarke said.

"But as soon as the whistle goes, it is all about the new season and ten months of hard fought, competitive football.

"As ever, fans will be optimistic that this season will be their year and I'm sure every one of them can't wait to get started."

The League will also make special presentations to all the other clubs featuring in this weekend's 125th Anniversary Fixtures.