Veteran midfielder Darren Pratley, aged 40, is among eight players released by Leyton Orient following their recent heartbreak in the League One play-off final loss to Charlton.
Pratley had been a key figure in Richie Wellens` squad for the past four years. He played a significant role in the team reaching the League One play-offs this season and also contributed to their League Two title victory in 2023.
The club paid tribute to Pratley`s career and his contributions to Orient. He turned 40 in April and boasts a distinguished playing history.
His career highlights include playing in the Premier League for Bolton Wanderers, where he made 202 appearances. Pratley also enjoyed successful spells at Swansea City, helping them gain promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2011, and winning League One with the Welsh club in 2008.
He continued his promotion-winning ways by helping Bolton return to the third tier in 2017 and achieving the same feat with Charlton Athletic two years later.
Aside from Pratley, Leyton Orient has also released seven other players. This group includes Randell Williams, another former Bolton player, who had joined on a short-term contract in January.
The other players departing the club are Jayden Sweeney, Joe Pigott, Sam Howes, Rhys Byrne, Reon Smith-Kouassi, and Thomas Avgoustidis.
In addition to these releases, five players have returned to their parent clubs after their loan agreements expired. These are Tottenham duo Jamie Donley and Josh Keeley, Dillan Markanday, Jack Currie, and 27-goal striker Charlie Kelman.
Two players, Theo Archibald and Jordan Graham, whose contracts have expired, will remain at the club to continue their rehabilitation from long-term ACL injuries on an out-of-contract basis.
Manager Richie Wellens commented on the squad changes, stating: “Each and every one of my players gave me absolutely everything this season, and they have all been a pleasure to work with.
“This group has been special – one of the best I have ever worked with as a player or manager – and that makes these decisions even tougher.
“This summer, we will say goodbye to some players who have been with us for a long time, and I can only thank them for their service to our football club. They have played a huge role in our climb up the ladder, and I wish them all the very best for the future.
“Jordan Graham and Theo Archibald put their bodies on the line for us and we will continue to support them throughout their recovery from injury by having them around the training ground. I’m looking forward to seeing them both back playing again, be that with us or someone else.”
