two seasons, gaining support from two-thirds of the League One and League Two outfits. Robins was among those supporting the format, commenting that it had provided an "invaluable experience for those players at an Under-21 level to participate in senior football", citing the experience of his own young players and the opportunity they had received to play at Wembley. Appleton was more critical of the format, preferring to return to the 48-team version. He commented that the use of loan deals and reserve team football was a better way for top clubs to develop their academy players than participating in the EFL Trophy, citing his own experience playing for Manchester United reserves during the 1990s. References 2017 Events at Wembley Stadium Trophy Final Efl Trophy Final 2017 Football League Trophy Final 2017 April 2017 sports events in the United Kingdom