Colchester United have released a number of high-profile players, including striker Marvin Sordell and fellow front-runner Darren Ambrose.

Ex-Ipswich Town, Newcastle United and Charlton 32-year-old Ambrose was only a bit-part player during his one season with the U’s, while Sordell, recruited from Burnley last summer, hardly featured at all following the turn of the year, after sustaining an ankle injury.

Keeper Elliott Parish, who was first choice during the last few months of the campaign, and full-back Tosin Olufemi have also been released following today’s disclosure of the U’s retained list.

The other players to be released are the young trio of Tyler Brampton, Marley Andrews and Kieran Bailey.

Midfielder Joe Edwards has the option of another year, while the players to be offered new contracts include Drey Wright, Tom Eastman, Femi Akinwande, Alex Gilbey and Jamie Harney.

Young keeper Dillon Barnes and Academy product Jack Curtis and have also been offered new contracts.