THE EFL Trophy group stage fixtures have been confirmed for Newport County AFC, Exeter City, Cheltenham Town and West Ham United under-21s.

County will host the West Ham youngsters first up at Rodney Parade on Wednesday, September 4, (kick-off 7.45pm).

The Exiles will then welcome League Two rivals Exeter to Newport on Tuesday, October 8 (kick-off 7.45pm).

And Michael Flynn's men will conclude their group stage games at Cheltenham's Jonny-Rocks Stadium on Tuesday, November 12 (kick-off 7.45pm).

County made it to the second round of the competition, then known as the Checkatrade Trophy, last year before losing on penalties at Cheltenham.

The last time a Hammers side came to Newport they were beaten 2-1 in the FA Cup third round in January 1979.

The teams also met in Division Two in the 1946-1947 season when West Ham won 3-0 at Upton Park and drew 1-1 at Somerton Park.