West Ham United’s U21s are set to play Cheltenham Town, Newport County and Reading in the 2024/25 Bristol Street Motors Trophy group-stage.
The young Hammers have been drawn in Group H of the Southern section of the competition, which will see them take on EFL League Two pair Cheltenham and Newport for a second season in a row.
A narrow 1-0 win over County preceded an emphatic 4-0 triumph over the Robins en route to top spot in their group last term, ahead of an eventual round of 16 exit at the hands of tournament runners-up Wycombe Wanderers.
While West Ham have also faced Cheltenham and Newport in earlier editions of the EFL Trophy, a clash against League One club Reading - who were in the Premier League little over a decade ago - represents an exciting new challenge.
As per competition rules, the young Irons will play all three group matches away from home, with the top two in each of the 16 regionalised groups going through to the knockout stages.
Group-stage matches are due to commence in early September, with dates to be confirmed in due course.
U21s lead coach Mark Robson, who has returned to the role after spending last season with the men's first-team squad, said: “I think it’s a really good draw. We’ve played Cheltenham and Newport a few times over the years, so we know we’re in for a tough couple of games there.
“Reading is another great draw, with the opportunity to go and play at their stadium. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the lads and they’ll be looking to relish it.
“They all really look forward to this competition, because it’s a test for them to play against senior professionals. They get a picture of what it’s like and what it really entails, so it’s a chance for them to show what they’re about.
“For us as coaches, these games are really valuable. We learn a lot about the players, and see things we perhaps don’t see elsewhere, so as a group we’re all looking forward to it.”
Dates, kick-off times and ticket information for our three Group H ties will be confirmed on our channels.
