Sharp among seven leaving Doncaster this summer

Billy Sharp has scored 11 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions for Doncaster Rovers this season [Shutterstock] Doncaster Rovers have released Billy Sharp, Zain Westbrooke, Ben Close, Joseph Sbarra, Jordan Gibson, Kyle Hurst and James Maxwell. Sharp, 40, helped Rovers win promotion to League One last season after returning to the club for a third spell. Having scored 296 goals during his senior career, Sharp said last week that he wanted to play on next season and continue his career into his forties.

In his final home game for the club, Sharp scored a second-half equaliser as they sealed a point against Stevenage. Westbrooke and Hurst have spent this season on loan at National League side Scunthorpe United while Sbarra has also spent time in the fifth tier this season with Solihull Moors. Close has made 31 appearances this season for Doncaster and 124 in total since joining in 2021 with Gibson making 51 this term and 103 in total.

Meanwhile, Maxwell leaves having made 117 appearances. "I want to thank every player who will be leaving the club for what they have given during their time here. Each of them has played a part in our journey," manager Grant McCann said.

"They've given everything for the badge, day in and day out. Some leave us as League Two champions and others have shown real grit and professionalism to help us compete in League One this year, but all of them have contributed to what we are building. "On behalf of Doncaster Rovers, we wish them the best of luck for the future and every success in the next chapter of their careers.