Sunderland manager Roy Keane has released his former Republic of Ireland team-mate Kenny Cunningham as he prepares for life in the English Premiership.

The 35-year-old defender is among four to have been shown the door by Keane after the club published the retained list for next season.

Midfielder Tommy Miller (28) and striker Kevin Smith (21) have also been told their contracts will not be renewed, while Sunderland have decided not to take up an option on the 24-year-old Frenchman William Mocquet.

The decision follows the return of loan signings Jonny Evans and Danny Simpson to Manchester United after they played a major role in the club's Championship campaign.

Cunningham arrived at the Stadium of Light on a free transfer from Birmingham last summer - before Keane succeeded chairman Niall Quinn at the helm - and started the first 11 games of the campaign.

He lost his place through injury, however, and made only one more appearance - in the 2-0 league win over Barnsley on October 21st - Evans establishing himself alongside Nyron Nosworthy following his January move from Old Trafford.

Miller (28) spent much of last season on loan at Preston but briefly returned to the Sunderland bench towards the end of their charge up the Championship table, his last game for the club coming as a substitute at Barnsley on March 10th.