August 2009

The live draw will take place on Saturday August 15 from 9am, ahead of the first round games on September 1 and 2.

It won’t be the first time the trophy has been in the studio, after making several appearances over the past three years.

Wrestler and actor The Rock, rap group D12 and household football names including Jimmy Bullard and Trevor Sinclair have all held the silverware in previous shows and more celebrities are sure to do likewise, as the trophy celebrates its fourth action packed season.

Soccer AM presenter Helen Chamberlain said: “"As if Torquay's Promotion back to the league wasn't exciting enough, I can't think of anything better than another trip to Wembley - this time for a cup, never mind the fact that I'll be drawing them on August 15th."

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy sponsorship manager Sally Binns said: “We have all waited a long time for the new season to start, so what better way to celebrate this by an appearance live on Soccer AM.

“We have become very close friends with the show, and Helen Chamberlain and Max Rushden always bring their inimitable style of humour and drama to draw proceedings.

“It really is the luck of the draw on the day, so be sure to get behind your team and tune in to find out the fixtures for the first round of games.”

The potential of some prize scalps is bound to generate excitement with Southampton, Norwich City and Charlton Athletic entering the action for the first time.

Meanwhile, Burton Albion and Torquay United will be looking forward to pitting their wits in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy after securing promotion into the Football League.

Last season’s first round draw highlights included a Yorkshire derby between Leeds United and Bradford City at Elland Road, which Leeds won 2-1 in front of a competition record crowd of 20,128.