Released midfielder Ben Pringle won’t have a problem getting a new club says Gillingham boss Steve Evans.

Pringle was a star man for Evans as former club Rotherham United claimed back to back promotions to the Championship but the player failed to replicate that form with the Gills.

The 30-year-old finds himself among hundreds of other out of work footballers this summer but he’ll have no problems with a reference if he needs it.

Evans said: “He was incredible at Rotherham and I think he has been a bit unlucky.”

Pringle went straight into the starting line-up at Tranmere when he signed for the Gills in September but it was one of only six starts. He made four other appearances off the bench.

The Gills boss said: “He did really well against Tranmere but then I left him out because his legs were burning after 60-70 minutes of that game.

“He then never really got a run because we had more of a diamond formation and he has been unlucky. There are also personal bits that are to consider.

“Ben moved from the north-west to just outside Kent and was travelling and then his missus had a baby and he has been back home for the support there. It has been tough.

“When you are dealing with experienced lads it is not simple, it is not just about football. Ben Pringle can play football and is a good player but if you took the overall package then it was a decision we had to say no to.

“We didn’t know when we would be starting again and so we had to make a tough decision with him but he will get a club. He is a good player, very talented.”

Pringle was one of three players leaving Gills without a new contract offer. Fellow midfielders Ouss Cisses and Mark Byrne have also been let go.

The Gills are hoping to agree new terms with five other out of contract players, including Max Ehmer.

Gillingham, meanwhile, are closer to finding out which other team will join them from League 2 next season.

Northampton Town overcame a two-goal first-leg deficit to see off Cheltenham Town in the play-offs, winning 3-0 on Monday night. They will meet Exeter City in the final at Wembley.

Swindon Town, Crewe Alexandra and Plymouth Argyle have already won promotion automatically.

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