Charlton's impending relegation will coincide with a huge clear-out of players, including midfielder Zheng Zhi.

Assistant manager Mark Kinsella confirmed the 14 players are out of contract this summer as Charlton prepare for life in League 1 by slashing their 38-strong squad.

“I believe the number of players out of contract is about 14 in a squad of 38. The figure is definitely in double figures and players will be moving on,” said Kinsella.

Asked about Zheng Zhi’s contractural situation, Kinsella said: “It’s up at the end of the season and we’ll have to wait and see how that develops.”

Unless China’s captain, one of Charlton’s highest-paid players, signs another contract, he will become a free agent and with several clubs, including West Brom and Wolves, waiting in the wings, he will make his farewell appearance on May 3 against Norwich.

Even though their own positions at the club remain unclear, Kinsella and manager Phil Parkinson are already planning for next season.

“While I would like to say we were looking ahead to another in the Championship, we are not stupid,” said Kinsella. “League 1 is going to be difficult for all of us but we have to get on with it. We’ll probably start as favourites to come straight back up but it won’t be easy.”

Because of the international weekend, Charlton are without a game on Saturday.