Speaking to the Mansfield Chad, Mansfield Town manager David Flitcroft says matches in the early stages of the Checkatrade Trophy should be free admission for supporters. He is of the opinion that matches in the group stage can lack atmosphere, and it is only later in the tournament where interests peaks.
Mansfield begin their Checkatrade Trophy campaign this evening as they travel to local rivals Lincoln City, the current holders of competition. Flitcroft, like many other managers, are expected to rotate their side and use players who have not had as many minutes as others within their first team squad. He believes something has to be done to boost crowds earlier on.
The introduction of Under-21 teams from the Premier League and Sky Bet Championship in recent seasons has led to heavy criticism from many fans of EFL clubs. Flitcroft believes this is partly a reason for sparse attendances, but would support a free of charge approach,
“I think it’s a good trophy. But I wish we could somehow make the competition from to watch at this stage and get loads of kids in and loads of energy.
“They put the Premier League U21 teams so people can go along and see the top teams but there are not enough people in the stadiums in the early rounds.
“That’s the only thing that galls me with the competition really. Could the sponsors put that money in? Do we have to charge for it? It’s certainly a competition that League One and League Two clubs do take seriously because the prize is good. They have added prize money to win each round.”
Flitcroft also spoke of the fact that Mansfield fans have already had to travel to Macclesfield in the league and West Brom in their last cup game, and this extra game brings another added expense.
