Kilmarnock retained list sees seven players released as 15 to go this summer in squad overhaul

Kilmarnock are releasing seven players and saying farewell to 15 squad members in total after publishing their retained list today.

The Rugby Park side clinched Premiership safety last Sunday following a 3-1 win over Ross County who are up against it in their two-leggeed play-off final with Partick Thistle.

Boss Derek McInnes, who earlier this week lost assistant manager Tony Docherty after he took the Dundee gaffer's job, will now set about rebuilding his dressing room with a number of changes on the way.

Leaving at the end of their contracts will be Chris Stokes, Calum Waters, Lee Hodson, Dylan McGowan, Alan Power, Blair Alston and Scott Robinson.

Central midfielder Alston famously scored the goal which secured Killie promotion back to the Premiership at the first attempt against Arbroath in April last year.

Meanwhile, loan signings Zach Hemming, Lewis Mayo, Luke Chambers, Ben Chrisene, Jeriel Dorsett, Ryan Alebiosu, Jordan Jones and Christian Doidge will return to their parent clubs.

Midfielder Fraser Murray and striker Innes Cameron have signed new contracts with the club confirming talks are ongoing with Sam Walker, Ash Taylor, Jack Sanders, Liam Donnelly, Liam Polworth and Brad Lyons.

Killie chief McInnes told the club website: “It has been rewarding to work with such a dedicated group of players over the past 17 months. I’ve frequently spoken about the importance of ‘togetherness’ and every individual played their part on that front.

“Many of the squad continually put themselves forward for the end-of-season fight despite carrying knocks which is a testament to both the individuals and culture we’ve created at the club.

“While discussions are ongoing with a number of players, I would like to take the opportunity to thank departing members of the squad for their effort and commitment.”

There are currently 10 first-team squad players contracted to the club and they are as follows...

Joe Wright, Daniel Armstrong, Fraser Murray, Kerr McInroy, Rory McKenzie, David Watson, Kyle Vassell, Bobby Wales, Steven Warnock and Innes Cameron.

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