Newcastle United u21s and Sunderland will find out their Checkatrade Trophy group stage opponents next month.
The two north east sides met in last season's competition as the Black Cats ran out 4-0 winners at the Stadium of Light.
Jack Ross' side went on to reach the final last season but were beaten on penalties by Portsmouth after a 2-2 draw at Wembley Stadium.
Next term, all of the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six' will enter teams into the competition, meaning Sunderland could come up against some very talented development sides in the group stages.
Here is all you need to know about the 2019/20 Checkatrade Trophy group stage draw.
When is the Checkatrade Trophy group stage draw?
An actual date is yet to be confirmed but the EFL have stated the group stage draw will take place in January.
How can I follow the Checkatrade Trophy group stage draw live?
Again, details haven't actually been confirmed at this stage but you can follow the the draw on our dedicated live blog on Chronicle Live. We will bring you all of the live updates, analysis and reaction to the group stage draw.
When will the group stage be played?
The first round of fixtures are scheduled to take place week commencing Monday, September 2.
Who can Sunderland and Newcastle u21s face in the group stage draw?
Like last season, the competition is split in to northern and southern sections right the way through to the semi-finals.
Ball numbers are yet to be confirmed, but here is a list of teams likely to be in the northern section.
Accrington
Blackpool
Bolton
Burton Albion
Bury
Doncaster
Fleetwood
Rochdale
Rotherham
Shrewsbury
Sunderland
Tranmere
Bradford
Carlisle
Crewe
Grimsby
Macclesfield
Mansfield
Morecambe
Oldham
Port Vale
Salford
Scunthorpe
Walsall
Aston Villa u21s
Everton u21s
Leicester u21s
Liverpool u21s
Man City u21s
Man Utd u21s
Newcastle u21s
Wolves u21s
