Newcastle United Under 21's have joined the 2017/18 Checkatrade Trophy Group D alongside Crewe Alexandra, Port Vale & Oldham Athletic.

The three EFL Clubs were placed in Group D last week, with the draw for the invited Category 1 academy side conducted on Wednesday afternoon.

Newcastle United were drawn into the Alex's group, with other possible opponents Everton, Leicester City, Manchester City, Stoke City, Middlesbrough, Sunderland & West Brom being placed into other groups.

The fixtures for the group stage have also been released with Crewe meeting Newcastle United first up at Alexandra Stadium week commencing August 28, Oldham Athletic at Alexandra Stadium week commencing October 2 before the group stage finishes with a tie against Port Vale at Vale Park week commencing November 6.

Crewe Alexandra's Checkatrade Trophy Group Stage Fixtures:

v Newcastle United (H) - W/C August 28

v Oldham Athletic (H) - W/C October 2

v Port Vale (A) - W/C November 6

Confirmed fixture details & ticket prices will be announced in due course.

Click here to view all our current confirmed 2017/18 league & cup fixtures.