Hartlepool United find out Papa John’s Trophy group stage opponents ahead of Thursday's draw

The three teams will be joined by one of the invited under-21 teams, to be drawn on Sky Sports at 4.30pm on Thursday.

Newcastle United under-21s could potentially be drawn in the regionalised group stage draw.

It will be the first time Pools have taken part in the competition since the 2016-17 campaign after spending the past four seasons in the National League.

But following play-off promotion on penalties against Torquay United on Sunday, Dave Challinor’s side are busy preparing for the new season. Hartlepool have just six contracted players for the new season with extension options on two more set to be triggered.

They will discover their League Two fixture schedule tomorrow morning, as well as their Carabao Cup first round opponents.

That draw will also take place on Sky Sports, at 3.30pm with Pools handed ball number 14.

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