Our Development Squad will take part in the 2017-18 Checkatrade Trophy, also known as the EFL Trophy.

As with last season, the EFL has invited Premier League and Championship Under-21 sides with Category One status to compete in the Trophy alongside League One and League Two first teams.

Invited clubs play all regionalised group games away from home with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stages. The tournament goes national at the quarter-final stage (round four) and culminates with the final being staged at Wembley Stadium.

Head of Player Development John McDermott said: “We took the decision to enter the competition as it is beneficial for the Development Squad’s scheduling this year. We know the EFL Trophy will provide a massive challenge for us and we look forward to testing ourselves.”