Wrexham transfer target and ex-Sheff Utd man amongst three released at Bristol Rovers

Bristol Rovers have allowed three players to leave the club this summer with two players retiring, whilst talks are ongoing with those staying.

The Gas had to submit a retained list to the EFL by this Saturday, and have opted to publish it to update their supporters. Rovers are in discussions with Josh Grant, Harvey Greenslade, Ryan Jones and Grant Ward.

Portsmouth and Wrexham transfer target Harry Anderson fronts the list of departures. He has not been given a new contract offer and is allowed to seek a new opportunity.

Joey Barton revealed that had question marks over Anderson’s fitness, but did offer him the opportunity to return in pre-season. Anderson made 12 starts this term from 30 matches. The 26-year-old leaves the Memorial Stadium after making 79 appearances with seven goals and six assists.

Paul Coutts has been allowed to depart despite talk of being offered a potential coaching role. Coutts joined in the summer of 2021 and had been club captain. The 34-year-old made 68 appearances, scoring one goal and registering five assists. He suffered a knee injury at the end of the season that required surgery.

Calum MacDonald has been released after his deadline day move from Stockport County. MacDonald’s playing time was limited, making just four appearances.

Anssi Jaakola is to take up the role as goalkeeping coach on a permanent basis. The 36-year-old is one of the most long serving players at the club with 60 appearances and 16 clean sheets. He made six appearances last season - all in the EFL Trophy, and was back-up to James Belshaw, until the arrival of Ellery Balcombe and return of Jed Ward.

Alex Rodman - another player that has been at the club for a considerable period - has retired from professional football. He did not make a match-day squad last season. The 36-year-old has been at the Memorial Stadium since 2018 and made 96 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals and five assists.

Glenn Whelan has retired, and has taken up a permament coaching role. He joined in a player-coach capacity last year but will now focusing on coaching.