Three Released

After meeting his first team squad this morning, Vale boss Micky Adams has opted to offer new deals to the vast majority of his out of contract squad. In a rather surprising move, only goalkeeper Chris Martin, young defender Phil Roe and midfielder Paul Marshall have been released. Ryan Burge, who has missed practically the entire season through injury, has been placed on the transfer list. Many supporters were expecting wholesale changes, with an opportunity for a fresh start under prospective new owner Keith Ryder. Adams obviously feels that this group of players were good enough to gain promotion during his first spell in charge, before his departure to Sheffield United, and without the off the field difficulties which have overshadowed much of this campaign.

Martin is the most high profile to leave. After enduring a debut to forget in Vale`s 6-0 defeat to Swindon under the management of Lee Sinnott, he went on to become Vale`s first choice keeper during the 2009-10 season before losing his place to Stuart Tomlinson following Adams` arrival at Vale Park. Following an impressive start to his second spell at the club, Marshall has struggled for form and fitness of late, while Roe, a summer signing from Sheffield United, has failed to threaten the first team places.

Of those offered fresh deals, Sean Rigg and Anthony Griffith are rumoured to be set for pastures new, while captain Marc Richards is wanted by a host of clubs including League One side Preston North End. Adams told the Official Site: "These are very difficult decisions to make and not ones we have taken lightly

"We will work with the 16 players who have been offered terms and their representatives to hopefully finalise details in the near future.

"We thank the players who are leaving for their efforts and wish them the very best of luck for the future."

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