The EFL Cup first round field is set with action getting underway in less than two months’ time.
Auston Trusty and Brenden Aaronson were among several American players to learn their opponents for the first round of the annual competition. Haji Wright, Ethan Horvath, Reggie Cannon, Duane Holmes, Donovan Pines, and Lynden Gooch also will be among the U.S. men’s national team players set for early cup involvement this August.
Trusty and Sheffield United will host League One side Wrexham at Bramall Lane, the second of two meetings between the clubs in the last three years. The two clubs also met in the 2022-23 FA Cup, in which the Blades won a replay 3-1 at home.
Aaronson and Leeds United have a mouthwatering tie at Elland Road against fellow EFL Championship side Middlesbrough. The USMNT attacker is back in the Leeds plans after spending last season on loan at Union Berlin.
Current Columbus Crew midfielder Aidan Morris could feature in the match, as he is set to join Middlesbrough later this year. Matthew Hoppe is also eligible for involvement with Middlesbrough.
Wright and Coventry City visit Bristol City in another All-EFL Championship showdown. Wright was one of the Sky Blues best players last season, helping them reach the FA Cup semifinals before losing to Manchester United in penalties.
Horvath, Cardiff City’s No. 1 goalkeeper, will aim to lead the Bluebirds past visiting Bristol Rovers. The USMNT shot-stopper made the move to Wales from Nottingham Forest last January.
Cannon and QPR fought off relegation from the EFL Championship last spring. Marti Cifuentes’ squad will make the trip to Cambridge United.
In another All-EFL Championship affair, Holmes and Preston North End welcome Sunderland to Deepdale. The veteran midfielder heads into the final year of his contract with the club.
Pines will be itching to get back to full fitness for first round involvement with Barnsley. The League One side travel to Wigan Athletic in their second match of the new season.
Gooch and Stoke City travel to Carlisle United in the first round of the competition. The former Sunderland defender made the switch to the Potters last summer, ending his lengthy stay at Wearside.
The EFL Cup first round schedule will run from August 6-12.
