The EFL Trophy is set to continue in its controversial "B Team" format - with Liverpool and Manchester United the latest top clubs to join.

The Premier League giants have confirmed they will enter the competition next season.

They will involve their Under-21 sides in a tournament which used to be the preserve of lower-league clubs.

The trophy, which is seeking a new sponsor after the end of Checkatrade's three-year deal, has been dogged by controversy and supporter boycotts since the current format was introduced in 2016.

That saw teams from top-flight and Championship clubs join, with extra prize money introduced from the Premier League.

Some of Brunton Park's all-time lowest crowds have been seen in the Trophy over the last three seasons.

That has been mirrored at other lower-league clubs.

It has not, though, deterred clubs including Carlisle from voting in favour of an extension to the format.

Those in favour of the Under-21s' involvement have highlighted the financial incentives for smaller clubs as well as the opportunities offered to young players at the bigger outfits.

Confirming the involvement of Liverpool and Manchester United today, the EFL cited positive feedback from coaches and clubs about the trophy's format.

Their statement, though, made no reference to the ill-feeling it has generated among some supporters.

The EFL's executive chair Debbie Jevans, said: “The EFL Trophy continues to grow and we are delighted to welcome Liverpool and Manchester United U21s to the competition.

“The recent feedback received from Clubs and coaches has been very positive with the current format continuing to offer greater revenue for our clubs and competitive first team football for young talent.”

Other top-flight sides to take part next season will include Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal.

It means the Premier League's top six will all be represented in the trophy for the first time, among the 16 invited Category One Academy teams.

The round one group stage draw will be held in July, with the first fixtures in the 2019/20 competition due to take place in the week beginning September 2.

United were knocked out at the group stage last season. Portsmouth won the trophy after a penalty shoot-out against Sunderland in front of a competition record crowd of 85,021 at Wembley.