Last updated on .From the section Man City

Manchester City Under-21s won 4-2 at Rochdale in the EFL Trophy last 16

Manchester City are furious over the scheduling of their EFL Trophy quarter-final - 24 hours before the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.

City's under-21 side face Sunderland in the EFL Trophy on 22 January, while the first team play Burton in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final on 23 January.

With a 9-0 first-leg lead, manager Pep Guardiola wanted to select a younger side in the EFL Cup, but City say the schedule limits opportunities for their youngsters.

It is understood City have made their feelings known to the English Football League several times, but alternative dates have been rejected.

City are the last remaining under-21 side left in the EFL Trophy.

Three years ago, 16 'category A' academy clubs were controversially invited into the competition.

The aim was to provide younger players at those clubs with the chance to play meaningful games.

An EFL statement said the decision to play on 22 January was made after "full consideration" of representations from both clubs.

"With no mutual agreement between the clubs, the decision fell to the executive of the EFL," it said.

"There is a significant amount of sympathy with the position outlined by Manchester City and the fact that the dating of this game could remove one opportunity for the club's younger players to play in a first team competitive game with the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg the day after.

"The EFL is committed to delivering valuable playing opportunities for young players and would have assisted, if it had been practically possible but the alternative dates all had issues with them."

"The EFL is grateful for the support of both Clubs towards the Checkatrade Trophy and Pep Guardiola's backing of the Carabao Cup."