Astonishingly, the club have today announced that the inspirational duo of Arjan De Zeeuw and Matt Jackson will not have their contracts renewed and will be released in the summer.

De Zeeuw, 37, and Jackson, 35, were expected to renew their contracts in the summer after their impressive recent form, however a last minute change of heart by both players has left manager Paul Jewell a little bemused.

Jewell told the club's official website: "I'm upset to be honest. Both players are great pro's and it seemed as though everything was agreed until a last minute change of heart. Both Arjan and Matt have worked extremely hard for me as manager and I wish them well for the future."

It is unclear what caused the last minute change of heart although one rumour going round is that both players have been subject to a better offer from local neighbours Bolton Wanderers.

Watch this space for updates.