Harrison the surprise name on Millers’ released list as boss Evans wields axe

But Evans has released six players – Danny Harrison, Luke Foster, Richard Naylor, Tom Newey, Ollie Banks and Marcus Marshall – and told Michael Raynes and Jamie Annerson, under contract until next summer, that they can leave.

Veteran striker Paul Warne, 39, is hanging up his boots but has signed a three-year deal as development coach. The club’s five loaness – Rhys Taylor, Sam Wood, Kieran Cadogan, Sam Hoskins and Scott Griffiths – have all gone back to their parent clubs.

Both Warrington and Bradley will be out of contract this summer, but have impressed Evans since his arrival as manager one month ago.

The release of midfielder Harrison was, arguably, the biggest shock as the 29-year-old has been a first-team regular this season. The Millers now have 14 players on the books for next season including Mitchell Rose and Alec Denton, both 18, who have landed first-year professional contracts.

Evans said: “We can now move forward and focus on what we have to do to be ready for next season. We wish those lads leaving us every success for the remainder of their careers.”

Evans will now step up his efforts to sign around 11 new players and talks have already started with five potential transfer targets.

“My focus is now on recruitment,” he said. “It is a key task and there is no time for a holiday just yet. We are coming back home to a fantastic new stadium, the supporters and the town are ready for a successful team, and it is my sole objective to deliver that for them. The talking stops now and the real hard work starts. I would expect us to be adding 11 or 12 new players to the squad.”