Forgotten man Kevin Rapley has expressed his disgust at being axed by Colchester United.

And fellow long-term injury victim Mark Warren said he too was 'very disappointed' at being released by the club.

The pair, who have been out of action for almost half the season, have been told by U's boss Phil Parkinson there are no new contracts for them.

Disgusted: Kevin Rapley

They join Chris Keeble on the unwanted list, plus Micky Stockwell and Joe Dunne, who announced their retirement from League football last week.

Angry and upset, striker Rapley, 25, told the Evening Gazette: "I feel disgusted and let down that I can't come back for two or three months next season to prove myself - after all, I did get injured playing for Colchester United!

"The gaffer told me I'm not going to get a new contract because he hasn't seen me play, but to be fair to him he has said I can come back to get fully fit in pre-season, if I don't get fixed up with another club. And he'll play me in the friendly programme so other clubs can take a look at me.

"It's a great gesture on his behalf, but in my heart of hearts I know I've played my last game for Colchester United and I've already sold my flat in the town because I know I'm not going to get anything here."

Central defender Warren, 27, an early season contender for the U's player-of-the-year award, said: "I would be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed and it would be easy for me to slag-off the club.

"But I've got a wife and two children to look out for and I'm not going to do or say anything that could jeopardise a move to a new club.

"But I have a lot to thank Colchester United for. I have made a lot of good friends here and I wish the club very well."

Manager Parkinson said: "These decisions are always difficult to make, but Mark and Raps are both excellent lads and excellent professionals."

Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003

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