Irishman Delap released by Stoke

Stoke have confirmed they have released seven players, including former Republic of Ireland international Rory Delap, Jermaine Pennant and Dean Whitehead.

Delap made just one appearance for Stoke last season, on the opening day, and in January moved to Barnsley on loan. The 36 year old Irishman had spent six years at the Brittania stadium.

Winger Pennant made just two appearances for the Potters last season — both coming in August — and he spent three months of the campaign on loan with Wolves.

Midfielder Whitehead played 30 times for Stoke in 2012-13, but only 12 of those were Barclays Premier League starts.

Goalkeeper Carlo Nash, defender Matthew Upson, midfielder Matthew Lund and striker Mamady Sidibe are the other players the Staffordshire outfit have confirmed are being let go with their contracts at an end.

Stoke have also announced that Dave Kemp, Mark O’Connor, Adrian Pennock, Paul Maxwell, Dave Kevan and Gerry Francis have left their roles on the coaching staff.

Mark Hughes was last month appointed as the new manager at the Britannia Stadium, succeeding Tony Pulis.