BLACKBURN havereleased20 players and sprung a surprise over a midfielder.
acted decisively after missing out on the play-offs by one place and two points.
Boss has kept his main men and reportedly wants aroundsix key signings this summer.
But Adam Forshaw’s inclusion in the big batch of departures has raised eyebrows in some quarters.
The former and star, 33, has been praised by Ismael in recent months
And Forshaw remained in Rovers’ matchday squad until the end of the season as they fell just short of the top six.
But although the ex- ace has been freed, Blackburn say they will “keep in close contract”;; with him over the summer.
Rovers know that means he is “entitled to explore other options”;;.
But for now it leaves the door open for an intriguing transfer saga.
Blackburn also revealed they are still in talks with three senior players, having offered all of them new contracts.
They are Danny Batth andTyrhys Dolan– who both started Rovers’season-ending 1-1 draw at on May 3 – plusAndi Weimann.
Rovers said in a statement over their released list: “Batth and Weimann both enjoyed magnificent maiden seasons at Ewood Park last term, bringing vast Championship experience, leadership qualities and high standards to the dressing room and out on the pitch.”;;
Meanwhile, Blackburn have activated a one-year option to keep Wales winger Ryan Hedges another year after heplayed 42 leaguegames in 2024-25.
Under-21 players Harrison Wood, Zack Stritch and Adam Khan have also had the option of an extra 12 months triggered.
Jake Batty and Felix Goddard, who were both loaned out last season, have been offered fresh Ewood Park deals.
And teenage midfielder Lorenze Mullarkey-Matthews has been handed the chance to signhis first professional contract.
On the way out are: Dilan Markanday, Jack Vale, Zak Gilsenan, Patrick Gamble, Tom Bloxham, Jordan Eastham, Rhys Doherty, Isaac Whitehall, Jalil Saadi, Alex Baker, Adam Caddick, Paul Murphy-Worrell, Lewis Bell, Bradley Taylor, Jackson Shorrocks, Nathan Willis, Stephen Edmondson and Teddy Ramwell.
On top of this, Dan Shaw’s registration has been cancelled by mutual consent.
Five loanees have returned to their parent clubs – Owen Beck, Amario Cozier-Duberry, Dion Sanderson, Cauley Woodrow and Emmanuel Dennis.
Blackburn said: “Rovers would like to place on record its sincere thanks to all the players who will be leaving the club for their contribution and commitment during their time at Ewood Park, and we wish them all well in their future careers.”;;
