Gillingham are to release three players and two are free to seek options elsewhere.

Released from the club following the end of the 2019/20 season are midfielders Ben Pringle and Ouss Cisse.

Mark Byrne has also been let go. The injured midfielder has been told he can return to prove his worth when pre-season training gets underway.

Fiver other players, captain Max Ehmer, Brandon Hanlan, Mika Mandron, Regan Charles-Cook and Henry Woods are all on deals that are set to expire.

The club say they will make a final decision regarding any proposed contract offer following a board meeting on June 19 (next Friday) "or the date that the commencement of the 20/21 season is formally announced by the EFL."

It was thought Barry Fuller was one of the players out of contract but he has triggered a one-year extension.

The 35-year-old has, however, been told he is free to seek options elsewhere. The club say they are looking to proceed with a squad with a core of young players going ahead.

Lee Hodson, who spent the latter stages of the season on loan at St Mirren, has another year left on his contract and he is also free to leave.

Manager Steve Evans said: "Barry’s performances throughout the season have been excellent but as a group, and individually, we are implementing a strategy that will see the core of the group being younger players.

“Lee Hodson has been given permission to continue his discussions regarding a permanent move to SPL Premier team St. Mirren, plus one other EFL opponent.”

Players who have deals and are part of the manager’s plans are goalkeepers Jack Bonham and Joe Walsh, along with outfielders Stuart O’Keefe, Connor Ogilvie, John Akinde, Matty Willock and Jack Tucker.

At this stage the club have also decided to release goalkeeper coach and Wembley winner Simon Royce.

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