Blackburn test for Latics

ATHLETIC face a reunion with former manager David Dunn at Ewood Park in the group stage of the revamped EFL Trophy.

Dunn, who now works as assistant under-21s coach at Blackburn Rovers, will form part of the Ewood Park coaching team that field an under-23s side containing up to four over-age players in the controversial competition.

Also in Athletic's regionalised group are Carlisle United and Fleetwood. Stephen Robinson's side will play each side once.

Carlisle visit SportsDirect.com Park on the week commencing Monday, August 29, followed by two away trips.

Fleetwood are hosts on the week starting Monday, October 3, with a Blackburn Rovers under-23s side, featuring up to four over-age players, taking on Athletic in the week of Monday, November 7.