Linfield coach Alfie Wylie and Derry manager Stephen Kenny

Four teams from the Irish League and four League of Ireland sides are involved in the competition which was won by Linfield last year.

Derry City, playing in the cup for the first time, face Linfield at Windsor Park on Monday.

"We watched jealously last season but now we are eager to make an impact," said City manager Stephen Kenny.

"It is an important competition because football in Ireland needs as much investment as it can get."

Dublin club Shelbourne, who lost to Linfield in the 2005 final, kick-off at home to Glentoran on Monday.

Dungannon Swifts make their debut in the event with a trip to Drogheda United while Portadown are at home to Cork City.

Monday 20 February

Group One
Portadown v Cork City (1945 GMT)
Drogheda United v Dungannon Swifts (1945 GMT)

Group Two
Linfield v Derry City (2000 GMT)
Shelbourne v Glentoran (1945 GMT)