Leeds have issued the list of players out-of-contract who will be released during the close season, and the biggest surprise is that Rodolph Austin won’t be getting a new deal.

The 29-year-old Jamaican international made 101 league appearances in the three seasons he was with us, and his bravery, commitment and occasionally accurate shooting earned him something of a cult following among the fans at Elland Road. But he is also a bit limited, even at Championship level, and his wage level may have counted against him as Cellino still needs to cut costs to get our finances in gear.

Two goalkeepers have been released in the shape of Alex Cairns (22) and Stuart Taylor (34). Cairns has never really looked likely to establish himself as a first team contender, and while Taylor has been an adequate deputy for Silvestri this season the club might be looking for a younger replacement. There have also been suggestions that Paul Robinson might be on his way back to Leeds.

The release of Michael Tonge is no great surprise, but it’s a little disappointing that Zac Thompson, and Aidy White will also be leaving the club. White in particular seemed to have a bright future at several stages of his Leeds career, but always looked a bit too lightweight and injury prone. I always preferred to see him playing left midfield rather than full-back, and if he can regain his fitness he may yet be able to carve out a decent career elsewhere.

The other three on the list are former youth players Daniel Atkinson, Luke Booker and Afolabi Coker, who unfortunately won’t be stepping up to the first team squad. On the other hand we will be offering eight academy players their first professional deals, including Kalvin Phillips, but a further six academy squad members will also be on their way out of the club.

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