Carlisle United have confirmed details of their group fixtures in the controversial Papa John's Trophy in the 2022/23 season.

The Blues take on Fleetwood Town, Barrow and Manchester United's under-21s in the group stages.

It has been confirmed that Carlisle's game against fellow Cumbrian side Barrow will be an away fixture.

And they will host Fleetwood and Man Utd's young side at Brunton Park.

First up in northern group G is the visit of Manchester United's under-21s on Tuesday, August 30 at 7.30pm.

Next sees the home clash with League One side Fleetwood on Tuesday, September 20, with a 7pm kick-off.

The Blues then head to Holker Street to take on Barrow on Tuesday, October 18, also at 7pm.

It will be the seventh season under the controversial format which sees Premier League academy teams taking part in the lower-league cup.

Top-flight clubs have been involved since 2016, with extra prize money accompanying their entry into the competition.

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But many fans have turned their backs on the trophy in light of the big clubs' involvement.

Indeed, ten of Brunton Park's all-time lowest home attendances have come since the trophy's change of format in 2016.

Last season's visit of Everton's under-21s saw officially the second-lowest crowd at Carlisle's ground for a first-team game - just 875.

That was one of six three-figure attendances at Brunton Park under the new format.

Carlisle reached the third round of the trophy last season before being knocked out by Harrogate Town.