Gerhard Struber on exit of Barnsley FC duo

The Oakwell outfit announced their retained list earlier this week, with Austrian keeper Radlinger and experienced midfielder Dougall to leave the club alongside fellow senior players Dani Pinillos and Mamaduo Thiam, who have not made a first-team appearance under Struber since his arrival in November.

Barnsley had been speaking with Dougall and Radlinger about agreeing short-term deals to remain until the end of the season, but they expressed a wish to leave under freedom of contract at the end of June after being told that they would not be receiving new extended contracts.

Struber, who reports no fresh injury problems for Saturday's home game with Millwall, said: "I think every single player - especially when we speak about Sami and Kenny Dougall - had a good time here in Barnsley, especially Kenny. He was promoted to the Championship with Barnsley.

"They showed me they had skills and were very helpful for the team and had a good style in football. But right now, it is clear that the gap between my game idea and the DNA of these good players is too big to go together in the (long-term) future.

"The situation right now is clear for me and the boys and they (Radlinger and Dougall) decided that they do not play until the last game here.

"It is not easy for the team at this moment, but it is okay and I understand the reaction and decision (of Radlinger and Dougall in not agreeing to stay until July 22).

"But for us, we are ready with many players in a good shape and many players with the right attitude at the moment.

"Our concentration and focus is more in the game and not so much what the future is of Sami and Dougall."

Meanwhile, a change regarding loan rules means that players who have returned to their parent clubs following loan spells could potentially feature in a match-day squad this season if a club does not have enough recognised first-team players with experience.

It would mean that Toby Sibbick, George Miller, Jordan Green and Victor Adeboyejo - back training at the club following loan spells away - could possibly feature between now and July 22.