Bristol Rovers are due to release their retained list shortly as they bid farewell to some of their promotion winning squad.
Already the likes of reliable centre-back Connor Taylor and the mercurial winger Luke Thomas have penned their goodbyes following the end of their loan moves. Their departures like Elliot Anderson and James Connolly’s will be confirmed when the list is announced as they are not contracted to Rovers.
For those contracted to the Gas however, there are some who’s futures are secure because of contracts that go beyond this summer, whilst for others their next steps are up in the air.
Contract talks are to be had with the likes of talisman Antony Evans, who contributed to 22 league goals in the past season, earning himself a spot in the League Two Team of the Season, if you were to base it on player ratings. There is certain to be interest in the 23-year-old but promotion back at the first time of asking will put the ball in Rovers’ court after delivering on their early season promise.
Meanwhile there are players returning to the club who are still in contract for another year, like midfielder Zain Westbrooke, who was sent to Stevenage back in January. Experenced striker Brett Pitman has returned from a loan at Eastleigh and there is an option to extend his deal it remains to be seen whether he will stay.
The Gas have until Saturday, May 21, to submit their finalised retained list to the English Football League, but it could be announced earlier than then.
Below is who we think will have their stays extended at Bristol Rovers and who may have to seek pastures new in what potentially could be another summer of upheval.
5. Zain Westbrooke - Likely
Loaned out to Stevenage for the second part of the season after finding first-team opportunities hard to come by. Should look to move himself on and find a new club to find first-team football. Doesn’t fit the mould as a Barton player. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images
6. Leon Clarke - Likely
Came to Bristol Rovers with some expectation but was limited due to a severe injury. Likely to look elsewhere in the striker market with cheaper options out there. | Getty Images Photo: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
7. Aaron Collins - Unlikely
Reportedly being eyed up by Portsmouth but cold water was poured on those rumours. Top scorer at the Gas, a club he has a strong affiliation for. Will want to test himself at League One level. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images
8. Sam Nicholson - Possibly
Out of contract in the summer with a decision to be made. Five goals and four assists a respectable return but may want to try his luck elsewhere. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images