If good things really do come in threes, then managers up and down the country will have extra reason to dream about winning the Johnstone's Paint Trophy this season.

While the trophy continues to be regarded as one of the most coveted domestic cup competitions in Britain, it is also something of a lucky omen for the previous two winners.

MK Dons celebrated winning the silverware in March by going on to secure promotion to League 1 shortly after.

And 2007 winners Doncaster Rovers followed up their triumph at the Millennium Stadium with promotion to the Coca-Cola Championship in May.

So if a good cup win is linked to promotion success in the league format of the game, clubs up and down the land will have an extra reason to succeed at Wembley in 2009.

Johnstone's Paint Trophy sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick said: "Maybe managers will think twice before 'concentrating on the league' from now on.

"The Johnstone's Paint Trophy has had a positive effect on teams' seasons. Players and backroom staff have told us this, and have said that a trip to Wembley has really given their season impetus.

"Swansea City also benefited from a good cup run by reaching the area final before winning League 1 as champions, so the evidence is there.

"MK Dons and Doncaster Rovers have tasted league success after winning the trophy, so let's hope things do happen in threes and the same can be said in 2009."