CHERRIES’ development squad’s fixtures for the Premier League Cup have been confirmed, with Shaun Cooper’s side drawn alongside Brighton, QPR, and Derby County.

The competition involves 32 teams and is described by the Premier League as being run in a “UEFA Champions League style”, with teams from Premier League 2 as well as the Professional Development League.

However, as Cherries are still classified as having a Category Three academy, they do not take part in either the Premier League 2 (Category One teams) or the Professional Development League (Category Two).

Cooper’s charges start their cup campaign away at Brighton this Wednesday, with kick-off 7pm at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre.

Cherries’ first home game comes against Derby, with the match scheduled to take place at the Vitality Stadium on Friday, September 23, with kick-off also 7pm.

The next match is penciled in for Monday, November 21, with Cherries travelling to Hanwell Town’s Powerday Stadium to face QPR.

Brighton then visit the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, November 26, with kick-off at 1pm.

Derby County then host their south coast counterparts at Loughborough University Stadium on Monday, December 12 (kick-off 7pm), before Cherries finish the group stage at home against QPR a week later, on Monday, December 19 (kick-off 7pm).

The competition will be contested between under-21 teams, with sides able to name five over-age outfield players, as well as one over-age goalkeeper.