Length of contract: 3 years | Annualised value: US$200,000 | Overall value: US$600,000

The English Football League has announced an extension to the sponsorship of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy until the end of the 2011/12 soccer season. Johnstone's, a Yorkshire-based paint company, has backed the competition since the 2006/07 season, and the new three-year extension has been welcomed by both sides.

"I am delighted that another of our partners has decided to extend its relationship with the Football League," said League chairman Lord Mawhinney.

"Two seasons ago, we implemented changes to increase its spectator appeal. Additionally, clubs have sought to attract a new audience to midweek football through a range of innovations."

48 clubs from the English Leagues One and Two compete for the silverware each season.

The record attendance for the final, held at Wembley, is 80,841, despite low attendances being a problem in the early rounds.