Carlisle United will face Hartlepool United and Morecambe in the group stage of next season's Papa John's Trophy.

The promoted pair and the Blues have been placed into Northern Group A of the controversial competition in 2021/22.

They will also face an invited Premier League Under-21 team, whose identity will be confirmed in tomorrow's draw.

The competition, previously for lower league clubs only, is set for a sixth year under its divisive "B Team" format, which some fans have boycotted over the involvement of big clubs, whose arrival has brought extra prize money.

The pre-determined draw for the 2021/22 version will see United renew acquaintances with Pools after the north east club's return to the EFL.

Dave Challinor's side, including ex-Blues defender Gary Liddle, beat Torquay on penalties in last Sunday's National League play-off final.

Morecambe, meanwhile, are preparing for life in League One for the first time after winning the fourth tier play-off final.

The Shrimps, under new boss Stephen Robinson, include ex-Carlisle men Cole Stockton and Arthur Gnahoua.

United's fellow Cumbrians Barrow are in Northern Group G with Accrington and Fleetwood.

The eight Premier League Under-21 teams who will be drawn into the northern groups tomorrow include Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Newcastle, Everton, Wolves, Leeds and Leicester.

A further eight top-flight clubs will be involved in the south section - including Aston Villa, who faced Carlisle in the northern section last season.

United, meanwhile, will be ball number eight in tomorrow's Carabao Cup first round draw.