Sunderland AFC will face Carlisle United and Morcambe in round one of the 2018-19 Checkatrade Trophy. All 48 EFL Clubs have been placed into pre-determined groups, with consideration given to ensure that travel time is minimised for supporters and recovery time is maximised for players. The Lads’ third and final Group A opponent will be drawn next week at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in central London, as the 16 invited under-21 teams are placed into their respective groups. Jack Ross’ Black Cats will be drawn against one under-21 side, with Everton, Leicester City, Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion Wanderers and Wolverhampton Wanderers their potential opponents. The format for this year’s competition is very similar to the 2017-18 edition, with only a couple of small changes made to the regulations. Players from EFL Clubs who are out on loan in the National League and below are now eligible to feature in the competition, while invited teams have been restricted to fielding two players over the age of 21 with more than 40 first-team appearances. Former winner Gregor Robertson will help to conduct the draw, which will take place from 1pm on Wednesday 18th July. https://www.safc.com/news/team-news/2018/july/checkatrade-trophy-draw
Wonder whose idea this was, all the hallmarks of a business consultancy, and a rubber stamp from the executive committee.
It's been around since the 80s. It's just had that many different names and formats. Started out as The Association Members Cups or something
Hi Bri., I was referring more to the constant changes in format than the actual competition itself, its the same everywhere, new brooms always wanting to exercise their authority, the old adage of if its not broke........etc. went out of the window moons ago. The World Cup is about to get the treatment next, if reports are correct.
I hope we make a good go of this. Regardless of the fact it’s a lower down cup everyone loves a cup run and some silverware. Feel good factor runs throughout the club. Another trip to Wembley could be on the cards and I’m sure we’d all like that.
