The big clubs might not win anything with kids

Barnsley celebrate winning the Johnstone's Paint TrophyCredit: Tom Dulat

The Football League Trophy, or Checkatrade Trophy to namecheck the sponsors, begins tonight and is a minefield for all concerned.

The Football League’s decision to parachute 16 academies into a competition historically contested by teams from the bottom two tiers has caused headaches all round.

The layers have been scratching their heads trying to price up a tournament usually bossed by the likes of Carlisle and Bristol Rovers, but now also featuring Chelsea and Everton. Punters, likewise, are working out what type of sides will be sent out by the newcomers.

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Steve DaviesRacing Post Sport

Published on 29 August 2016inFootball tips

Last updated 19:26, 29 August 2016

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