Preston North End will take part in the EFL Football Manager Cup alongside 53 other clubs across the EFL!
It's a straight knockout tournament with ten teams being given a 'bye' in to the second round of the competition due to the number of teams involved.
We called for supporters to apply for the position of our virtual manager and after a brilliant response, fans selected their representative through a shortlist on social media, with North End fan James Moulding appointed as our virtual boss.
The tournament was officially launched on Saturday 18th April, and North End have been drawn at home to Crawley Town in the first round, with ties set to be played from Monday 20th April through to Thursday 23rd April. Further details will be announced in due course.
Each tie will go to extra-time and penalties if necessary, with no replays in the competition. After each round is completed, highlights will be uploaded on to the FM YouTube channel so you don't need to miss any of the action.
The tournament is also looking to raise awareness and support for the EFL's charity partner Mind. During these difficult times, their services are needed more than ever so if you are in a position to do so, please support them where you can by clicking here.
The schedule for the tournament is as follows:
- Round One match dates – Monday 20th April to Thursday 23th April
- Round Two – week commencing 27th April
- The ‘Round of 16’ – week commencing 4th May
- The Quarter Finals – 11th May to 14th May
- The Semi-Finals – Saturday 16th May
- The Final – Sunday 17th May