It has been anticipated that many professionals will be finding themselves out of jobs this summer, and several ex Saddlers will be looking for work

We already knew that Gary Birch was not going to be offered anything by Kidderminster, as he is one of their higher earners, but thay have today also released former Walsall captain Tom Bennett. Dean Keates, however, has been offered another 12 month contract.

Up at Rochdale, former crowd favourite Wayne Evans has been released on a free transfer, as has Walsall legend Martin O’Connor at Shrewsbury. One rumoured Walsall target, Luke Rogers, has turned down the offer of another year.

It would be surprising if these were the last of the former players to find themselves out of work.

The official site has announced that Simon Osborn has indeed agreed a one year extension to his contract and will be combining playing and coaching duties next year. The news was broken in the Sunday Mercury, but the club has now made the news official. Osborn has been one of the stars of the revival at the end of the season. The 33 year old now looks as if he may be ending his playing career with the Saddlers.

Another success story this season has been the form of Michael Standing. The ex Villa attacking midfielder has been granted a two year extension on his contract as a reward for his efforts and fans will certainly be glad to receive this particular piece of news.

Lastly, following his impressive debut on Saturday, Irish Youth International full back Jon Harkness has been given a one year deal, with the option of another year’s extension.