The young Magpies are one of 32 teams competing in the midweek competition, comprising of 16 under-21 teams participating in the Premier League 2 and 16 first-teams from clubs participating in the National League.

United's second-string were drawn alongside Hartlepool United, Tamworth, Solihull Moors and defending champions Boreham Wood in Group C of the tournament.

Newcastle's youngsters will travel to The Lamb Ground to face Tamworth in their opening fixture on Tuesday 18 August (kick-off 7:45pm BST) before taking on Boreham Wood at Meadow Park on Tuesday 8 September (kick-off 7pm BST).

The young Magpies will then take on Solihull Moors at Damson Park on Tuesday 6 October (kick-off 7pm BST) before concluding their group campaign with a short trip to Hartlepool, playing at Victoria Park on Tuesday 13 October (kick-off 7pm BST).

The competition will consist of a group stage (four groups of eight), with the two best-placed teams in each group advancing to a knock-out stage to determine the winner.

The competition offers an opportunity for National League clubs to play regular matches against the best under-21 teams in England at their own stadia, with this additional exposure intended to improve the playing and spectator experience. National League clubs will also keep all gate receipts from these fixtures.