Bray Wanderers & Sligo Rovers to compete in Irn-Bru Cup

The SPFL have further expanded the Irn-Bru Cup to allow two League of Ireland sides to enter the competition next season.

This cross-border development comes following the introduction of Welsh & Northern Irish clubs to the tournament last year, with The New Saints eventually being knocked out at the semi-final stage by St Mirren.

Following UEFA approval the League of Ireland's two highest-ranked non-European participants from 2016 will enter the fray.

Bray Wanderers and Sligo Rovers will be entered at the second round stage, at the same time as the two clubs from both Wales and Northern Ireland.

Neil Doncaster, SPFL Chief Executive, said: "Scottish football is leading the way with innovation around cross-border football which is likely to be a key part of the footballing landscape in the coming years."

"We developed strong and positive relationships with our counterparts in Northern Ireland and Wales last season, alongside our iconic and innovative sponsor, IRN-BRU, and look forward to doing the same with the League of Ireland, Bray Wanderers and Sligo Rovers in 2017/18."

FAI Director of Competitions, Fran Gavin added: "I know both Sligo Rovers and Bray Wanderers are relishing the opportunity to play against new opposition and will be looking to advance as far as possible in the competition.

"Both clubs have full time professional squads and have a reputation for playing an exciting brand of football which we hope will enhance the IRN-BRU Cup."

Last year also saw additional clubs from the Highland and Lowland Leagues and all Scottish Premiership under-20 teams taking part for the first time.

Dundee United were victorious in March's final with a 2-1 win over St Mirren. The previous year the competition was won by Rangers in their final season in the lower divisions before being promoted to the Scottish Premiership.

The draw for the first round of the Irn-Bru Cup will take place on Tuesday, 27 June.