EFL Teams Learn Fate In Vertu Trophy Draw

EFL clubs have learned which teams they will face in the Group Stage of the EFL Trophy, with Premier League under-21 teams to be added to the draw later this week.

The competition has come under increasing criticism in years gone by, especially with the introduction of academy teams from the Premier League and Championship in 2016. Still, it offers clubs from League One and Two a fantastic opportunity to earn a day out at Wembley Stadium, with the final yet to feature an under-21 team.

The competition is formatted into a north-south divide during its early stages to cut down the amount of travel during the hectic EFL schedule. Furthermore, an academy team is unable to compete at home.

Peterborough United have won the last two editions of the competition, last beating League One champions Birmingham City in April.

Initial Group Stage Draw Made

Earlier today, the EFL released the Group Stage draw. Each group is consisted of four teams, with one under-21 team in each. However, those will be added to the draw tomorrow.

The draw is as follows:

Northern Section

Under-21 Teams To Be Added To Draw

1. Everton U21

2. Leeds United U21

3. Liverpool U21

4. Manchester City U21

5. Manchester United U21

6. Newcastle United U21

7. Nottingham Forest U21

8. Wolverhampton Wanderers U21

Southern Section

Under-21 Teams To Be Added To Draw

1. Arsenal U21

2. Aston Villa U21

3. Brighton & Hove Albion U21

4. Chelsea U21

5. Crystal Palace U21

6. Fulham U21

7. Tottenham Hotspur U21

8. West Ham United U21

The competition will kick off in early September.