Papa Johns, the pizza company, will not renew their sponsorship of the EFL Trophy. League officials are now looking for a new sponsor.

The pizza firm signed a three-year deal with the league worth around £1 million per season in 2020.

The competition is known for featuring Under-21 sides from Premier League, including Arsenal, and Championship clubs alongside those from Leagues One and Two.

The Papa John’s Trophy (formerly known as the EFL Trophy) has provided opportunities for young players to gain experience against professional opposition, although some clubs have criticised the format and scheduling, which can be difficult to balance with domestic and international commitments.

Arsenal’s Under-21 team has taken part in the tournament in recent years. The Young Guns were knocked out in the first knockout game this season after making it through the group stage.

The EFL hopes that the upcoming final between Bolton and Plymouth will act as a powerful advert, with a crowd of around 70,000 expected at Wembley on April 2. League officials are now looking for a new sponsor for the tournament.