Everton U23s find out their group opponents as the Premier League Cup returns

But winning trophies is to be frowned upon (apparently) which means winning cup games is not necessary – it's all about grooming players for the first team. What does it matter if they can't play together? And win as a team???

Yes, you're probably right, they won't stay boys forever. And the other sides they face could possibly get older too... at exactly the same rate (ie, one day at a time!) – thus maintaining this experience divide that they are struggling so much to overcome at the moment.

It's a massive learning curve but I'm sure the players can adapt, and will also learn a lot more at this level, than playing Under-18 football every week.

I also understand that winning is very important, and obviously helps development. One of the most pleasing things I saw tonight was that the kids were working very hard, and nobody's head went down, which is even more important than winning sometimes, although not everyone will see it this way.

Depending on the age, results and winning are not. It's a fine balance for a coach to make players realise they are progressing even if the results aren't going their way.

I think by the time we get to U23s, we're past the true youth development stage?

Remind me; and this is a genuine question. Hasn't Unsworth's role moved on? Isn't he more than just the manager of the U23s now? I thought he is now more of a Director of the Academy? Forgive me for not knowing the exact position or title.

Still, we continue with Unsy in charge for years, now allegedly given an enhanced role, just like his boardroom guardian angel.

Meanwhile the Academy players seem (by him at least) to be expected to make the grade regardless of the actual football on the pitch and our defeats that accrue from it.

Typical of USM Soft Arse Farm I'd say, and it can't change quick enough for me.

I'm all for giving as many young footballers a chance as possible, because it's the only way you will ever find out if they are good enough, but perhaps Michael K, is correct, and it could be detrimental to continue playing such a young team every week; it's why I asked the question about this maybe becoming a divisive issue at Finch Farm?

Didn't know about Unsworth having another role, Danny, with my own feelings being that, unless it's taking him away from his proper role, it's just a title. One thing that I did find sickening was when Unsworth described Brands as an Evertonian, because this brought about a load of cynical thoughts in my own mind, and definitely changed my thought process, making me instantly think, “Who the fuck are you trying to kid?” whilst sadly already knowing the answer.

It’s all in the name! Checkatrade were sponsors of the EFL Trophy, which more recently has been sponsored by Papa John’s. It was canceled last season but is back on for this season. Everton will field an Under-21 side. I added a note to the lead story up top about our group opponents.