Chesterfield have decided to axe seven members of this seasons squad ahead of the next campaign, after manager Danny Wilson announced his retained list today. New contracts have also been offered to three more first-team members.
The ex-Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday manager is now looking forward to his first full season in charge of the club. He’ll be hoping for a much improved campaign, after only confirmed safety from relegation with one game to spare.
The highest profile casualty from the club is Drew Talbot, who spent over seven years at the club after signing in 2009 from Luton Town. In 277 appearances for the club, he became a fans’ favourite, but has had his injury problems in recent times as well. He did still manage to start 29 games this season.
Chris Herd, who started 20 games, is the other higher-profile name to be exiting the Proact Stadium. He has already penned a move to Australian side Perth Glory.
The others to leave the club are all mainly fringe players. They are Jordan Slew, Byron Harrison, Mani Dieseruvwe, Michael Onovwigun and Aaron Chapman. It was only five years ago that Slew was a £1million player after signing for Blackburn Rovers, but only managing a handful of sub appearances with the Spireites this season.
Rai Simons, Jake Orrell and Jake Beesley have all been offered new contracts. The club await their official responses.
Speaking on the retained list, manager Wilson conceded that it is always a hard decision to make, but wishes all of the departing players the best for the future,
“It is a difficult time when players come to the end of their contract, with all the uncertainty. I hope the players who are leaving us have enjoyed their time at the club and I wish them all the best. Hopefully they can kick on and enjoy future success.”
