There aren’t necessarily too many major surprises among the ten names to be released by Barnsley, as issued on their retained list this morning. However there is additional news in the fact that two additional players, who are regular starters and out of contract, look set to depart as well.
Barnsley have also offered a contract extension to Jared Bird, their Under-23 captain, clearly believing he’ll be a big part of their future. The seven players on loan at the club have all returned to their parent sides as well following the culmination of the Sky Bet Championship season.
Touching on the two out of contract players, Josh Scowen and Marley Watkins have been in negotiations with the club but ‘have expressed an interest to explore other options’. In the case of Watkins this isn’t a big, big shock given he submitted a transfer request earlier in the season that was rejected. Scowen however is a surprise but he clearly feels as though he may need a new challenge or change of scenery.
Former Leeds United left back Aidy White headlines the list of released players. He has been struggling with injury over the past season, despite starting the campaign in the side. Lewin Nyatanga has spent the last few seasons away on loan, so it is no shock to see Paul Heckingbottom decide to move him on. Forward Ryan Williams also exits Oakwell. He has mainly been a substitute over the past season, and not a frequent one at that. Youngsters Callum Evans, who has first team experience this season, Matty Templeton, James Carvell, Jake Charles, Jack Cowgill, Omari Patrick and George Proctor have all been released as well.
Released: Aidy White, Callum Evans, Ryan Williams, Lewin Nyatanga, Matty Templeton, James Carvell, Jake Charles, Jack Cowgill, Omari Patrick & George Proctor.
Offered contract: Jared Bird.
Wish to explore other options: Josh Scowen & Marley Watkins.
