Adrian Pennock remains as head coach at Gillingham but Peter Taylor comes in as director of football. The retained list has now been announced by the Sky Bet League One club, who have made those big decisions on certain players’ futures.
It was a narrow escape for Gillingham as they only finished the season one point above the relegation trap door. Big changes have been made in the hope that they avoid a repeat and certainly look up the table, rather than hesitantly worry about those below them.
Stuart Nelson’s association with the football club appears to be coming to an end as the goalkeeper has been placed on the transfer list. Midfielder Billy Knott, who ended the campaign on loan with Lincoln City, who won the Vanarama National League, is another to be made available for transfer. Lincoln could possibly become a permanent destination for the playmaker.
Defender Ryan Jackson is perhaps the biggest surprise in terms of those who have been outright released. He started 30 of their 46 league matches last season, but has been told his services are no longer required. Veteran defender Zesh Rehman has also suffered the same fate, along with midfielder Chris Herd. Completing the list of exits are Mitch Dickenson, Ollie Muldoon, Rory Donnelly, Harry Newcombe and Emmanuel Osadebe.
Pennock has approached four players with new contracts in the hope that they’ll be remaining at Priestfield. Striker Cody McDonald, who was only one of two players in the whole squad to reach double digit goals, is someone who has been offered an extension. Elliott List, Greg Cundle and Josh Parker are also in the same boat too.
Released: Mitch Dickenson, Rory Donnelly, Chris Herd, Ryan Jackson, Ollie Muldoon, Harry Newcombe, Emmanuel Osadebe & Zesh Rehman.
Transfer listed: Stuart Nelson & Billy Knott.
Offered new contracts: Cody McDonald, Greg Cundle, Elliott List & Josh Parker.
