Derby County have accepted the Premier League's invite to replace Reading in the new National League Cup.

The Royals confirmed on Wednesday that they have pulled the Under-21s out of the controversial competition to ease the burden on a squad already featuring in four tournaments on top of assisting Ruben Selles' first team.

Noel Hunt's side had been due to face Maidenhead United, Aldershot Town and Wealdstone in a new format putting Category One academy sides against fifth-tier teams.

It has proved unpopular, however, as some clubs have opted not to take part.

Derby County have said: "Derby County’s Under-21s will compete in the inaugural competition and will take part in Group A, accepting the Premier League’s invitation following Reading’s withdrawal."

Starting in October, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham and Southampton are also in the Rams' group but will not face each other.

Tony Scholes, Chief Football Officer at the Premier League, said: “We’re excited to launch this new competition in partnership with the National League. The competition will provide additional opportunities for young players in the under 17-21 age groups to gain valuable experience of playing against First Team opposition, something many of our current Premier League stars have experienced in their development. We’re pleased to be able to support in the operation of the competition and look forward to seeing the wider benefits it will bring to National League clubs.”

Mark Ives, General Manager at the National League said: “This new competition presents another exciting chapter in our partnership with the Premier League. Our sides will have a great opportunity to compete against some of the best Academy Players in the country. We’re excited to be working closer with the Premier League on the operational side of the new competition and look forward to continuing our valued partnership further.”