15 Dundee Utd players released as Scott McMann and David Wotherspoon among big names shown the door

Championship-winning defender Scott McMann is the surprise name on Dundee United’s mammoth FIFTEEN player exit list.

The left-back played a major part in Jim Goodwin’s side bouncing back to the Premiership at the first time of asking. Goodwin has decided against renewing the former Accies player’s contract. The Irishman has brutally culled his squad with many of United’s academy graduates being shown the door. Archie Meekison, Chris Mochrie, Layton Bisland, Flynn Duffy, Craig Moore and Declan Glass have all been released.

Logan Chalmers, who spent the season at Ayr United, has also departed Tannadice, along Sadat Anaku. Experienced midfielder David Wotherspoon has also left after the expiry of his short-term deal, as has experienced Australian international Mark Birighitti. The keeper hasn’t played for United this season after being deemed surplus to requirements. Birgihitti didn’t make a first-team appearance this season and turned down moves to Hapoel Petach-Tikva and Crewe. He did go out on an emergency loan to cover at Kilmarnock but has been happy to run down his contract at United. His departure will free up a large chunk of the wage budget.

United have also confirmed the return of their on-loan players. A number of their on-loan players are also set to return to their parent club like Jordan Tillson who will head back to Ross County, Sam McClelland will return to St Johnstone, Alex Greive to St Mirren and Walton will go back to Luton.

A club statement read: ‘‘We would like to place on record our gratitude to all players moving on to pastures new for their services in tangerine, and extend our best wishes for their future endeavours." United are expected to agree a new deal with Miller Thomson and remain in talks with Ross Graham and Mathew Cudjoe.