2021–22 EFL Trophy
The 2021–22 EFL Trophy, known as the Papa Johns Trophy for sponsorship reasons, the 40th season in the history of the competition, was a knock-out tournament for clubs in EFL League One and League Two, the third and fourth tiers of the English football league system, as well as the "Academy teams" of 16 Premier League clubs with Category One status. Rotherham United won the title after beating Sutton United 4–2 after extra time in the final on 3 April 2022. Sunderland were the defending champions, but they were knocked out in the Second Round by Oldham Athletic. Participating clubs 48 clubs from League One and League Two. 16 invited Category One Academy teams. Eligibility criteria for players For EFL clubs Minimum of four qualifying outfield players in their starting XI. A qualifying outfield player was one who met any of the following requirements: Any player who started the previous or following first-team fixture. Any player who is in the top 10 players at the club who has made the most starting appearances in league and domestic cup competitions this season. Any player with forty or more first-team starting appearances in their career, including International matches. Any player on loan