Cambridge United retained list 25/26 review

Following Cambridge United's promotion to League One at the first time of asking, 8 players have been released by the club for varying reasons.

Michael Morrison, James Brophy, Elias Kachunga, Korey Smith, Shayne Lavery, Shane McLoughlin, Ben Purrington and Harry Dawson have not had their contracts renewed.

Player of the season, James Gibbons has also been offered an extension whilst Zeno Ibsen Rossi and Jake Eastwood have both triggered clauses in their contracts to keep them on the books for another season.

Michael Morrison

The veteran captain came through the academy and excelled during both of his spells. Having played over 230 games across a 21 year span, Morrison has epitomised everything it takes to be a U. He led the side in 3 divisions, connected with each and every fan and was a true Mr Cambridge United. His unbridled love for the club came across in each and every game he played and will forever be known as a club legend. Morrison can definitely continue his footballing career at a lower lever but for whatever he choses to do, the Amber Army will continue to support him. From the club's point of view it certainly makes sense to let him leave on such a high as age and injuries are unfortunately past him at this level.

James Brophy

The ginger Pele as many called him is leaving the club after punching United into League One. With 259 appearances for the club under his belt, the 31 year old is off to find his next chapter away from the Abbey. After arguably his best season with the club, Bonner and Harris are electing for change and youth to replace the creative versatile winger. By far one of the most beloved United players in recent times will be likely staying in League Two. With local teams needing improvement a move to Colchester or Northampton is likely but only time will tell where the winger will find a home.

Elias Kachunga

A true professional on and off the pitch will be leaving the Abbey after 112 appearances and 16 goals across the 3 season in Cambridgeshire. A former Premier League player who has bundles of experience and a knack for goals inside the penalty box. A role model for all young players in the area who will be missed.

Korey Smith

The experienced midfielder played with pure class in each and every of his 57 appearances. A fantastic general in the middle of the park who boasted perfection and determination in every aspect of the game. A player who loved the fans and will certainly be missed in the dressing room.

Shayne Lavery

His trophy lift summed him up. A great person with an unfortunate pair of hamstrings. As a striker he is a Championship level striker who just can't stay fit. With 0.69xg per 90 this season, he has displayed everything needed to be a great striker bar availability. Unfortunately in professional football the best ability is availability. He deserves a healthy season to show the world how good he is.

Shane McLoughlin

During his first season at the Abbey he has been a fantastic during his 26 games. Injuries and others exceeding in his position left him out of favour but he will certainly be remembered and loved for his assistance in getting the U's promoted. At 29 years old, Shane still has plenty of time left in his footballing career to excel somewhere as he did at Newport. Once again injuries haven't been on his side which has led to his departure.

Ben Purrington

The solid left back was a refreshing change to Danny Andrews. Only phased out of the team due to the excellence of Mayor and Brophy on the left hand side. A defensively acute player with the ability to buy a penalty at home in the 97th minute at home to Crewe. A fantastic performer throughout the season who will be missed.

Harry Dawson

The youth starlet has been let go following his loan spell at Peterborough Sports. The youth player stared in pre season games at the beginning of the season but the youngster clearly isn't in the plans of Harris.

James Gibbons has been offered an extension following his tremendous individual and eventual promotion winning campaign. News on his future can be expected in the coming weeks.

Jake Eastwood has triggered an extension in his contract which will see him in net for the U's return in League One. Zeno Ibsen Rossi has also somehow triggered an extension in his contract whilst on loan at Shelbourne. His return will be interesting as he won't join the squad until November at the earliest.

With a further 8 youngsters not being offered a professional contract, the academy has certainly had a down year.