Butch off as Coleman reshapes Stanley squad

MATT Butcher looks poised for a move back to the south coast after turning down a new deal to stay at Accrington Stanley.

Though the midfielder was offered terms, John Coleman revealed the new deal would not have been an improved contract and as a result Butcher has decided his future lies elsewhere.

Reds boss Coleman understands the decision and had nothing but praise for the 28-year-old, who has been heavily linked with a move to Portsmouth.

“Matt has been a good servant to the club and we wish him all the best,” said Coleman.

“We did offer him a new contact but have been unable to offer him an improved contract, so he is now a free agent. “I have spoken to one or two players but do not expect any signings until next month.”

Five players have been released by Stanley, whilst 11 have had their contract extensions triggered.

Harvey Rodgers, Jay Rich-Baghuelou, Ethan Hamilton, John O’Sullivan, Harry Pell, Joe Pritchard, Michael Nottingham, Archie Procter, Tommy Leigh, Joe Hardy, Tom Scully, Harry Perritt, Seamus Conneely, Liam Isherwood, Rosaire Longelo, Mitch Clark, David Morgan, Toby Savin, Korede Adedoyin and Emerich Poilly are still under contract for the 2022/23 season.

Ross Sykes, Colby Bishop, Sean McConville, Liam Coyle, Dylan Moonan, Dan Martin, Matty Carson, Rhys Fenlon, Oliver Patrick, Jack Nolan and Josh Woods have had their contract extensions triggered.

Stephen Sama, Lewis Mansell, Ben Pleavin, Luke Stowe and Kevin Spinelli were all released by the club while Joel Mumbongo, Yeboah Amankwah and Marcel Lewis have returned to their parent clubs following loan spells at the Wham Stadium.