Money wields Bescot axe
Craig Pead and Hector Sam were high-profile casualties today as Walsall released another six players from their League Two title-winning squad.
Mark Wright and Kris Taylor were also shown the door along with foreign imports Pär Cedervist and Geordie Lyall as Saddlers manager Richard Money announced a massive clearing of the decks ready for life in League One.
Tony Bedeau was also placed on the transfer list after just one disappointing season.
It means goalkeeper Clayton Ince, defender Ian Roper and young winger Ishmel Demontagnac are the only out-of-contract first team regulars who can now expect offers of new deals.
"We will be working hard in the months ahead to improve the quality of the squad as we step up to the higher level," said Money.
"We also want to allow the young, up-and-coming lads, who have done so well in the reserves this year, the chance to progress and show us what they are capable of.
"We have high hopes for the youngsters at this club and the calibre of players that we will be seeking to bring in during the summer will complement them greatly."
The departures of Lyall and Cederqvist come as little surprise as they have failed to make an impact since arriving in January, and Wright was expected to leave after drifting out of first team contention.
Former Wolves and Manchester United trainee Taylor turned in consistent performances during the first half of the season, which he spent as the club's first-choice left back.
Sam scored seven goals in the title-winning campaign while Pead was named in the League Two team of the year by the PFA.
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