Rocha released

Last updated : 02 June 2009 By Gareth Davies

DEPARTED: Ricardo Rocha has left the clubThe club has shed itself of 12 players in a bid to trim the squad. 

Portuguese defender Ricardo Rocha was the highest profile casualty. The former Benfica centre-back handed in a transfer request last May and has not made a single appearance since then.

 Rocha played 18 times in the club's colours since he signed in January 2007. His contract had recently expired.

 Also released were 11 of the clubs youth and reserve team who are not believed to have what it takes to break into the first team. 

A statement on the club's official website read: “The Club would like to thank Ricardo Rocha for his contribution over the past two-and-a-half years following his departure at the conclusion of his contract.

“Reserve team players Simon Dawkins, Kyle Fraser-Allen, Cian Hughton, Danny Hutchins, David Hutton, Jacques Maghoma and Takura Mtandari have also been released at the end of their contracts, along with Academy players Saulo Asajile, Mark Clare, James Dalton and Ajet Shehu. 

“We wish them all the best for the future.”