Carlisle turn down place in National League Cup

Carlisle are playing in non-league for the first time since 2005

Carlisle United have opted not to take up their spot in the National League Cup this season.

After discussions between club representatives and supporter groups, the relegated Cumbrians have declined their invitation.

The competition relaunched last season featuring 16 teams from the National League and 16 Under-21 teams playing in Premier League 2, with group stages and then knockout stages from the quarter-finals onwards.

"The board held discussions internally and reached the view that given the nature of the competition and previous experience in the EFL Trophy, the right choice was not to enter," chief executive Nigel Clibbens told the club's website.

Last season's competition was won by Leeds United's Under-21s who beat Sutton United in the final.