Joe Edwards is among nine players set to leave Colchester United this summer, after the club announced their retained list.

The U's Players' Player of the Year, who is out of contract this summer but has an option to sign for a further year, has not been offered a new deal by the club.

However, Colchester have said that they would be interested in re-signing the versatile former Yeovil Town player, "should the opportunity arise".

Experienced trio Marvin Sordell, Nicky Shorey and Darren Ambrose are also among the list of out-of-contract players not to be offered new deals by Colchester, following their relegation to League Two.

Goalkeeper Elliott Parish, Tosin Olufemi, Marley Andrews, Tyler Brampton and Kieran Bailey will also leave this summer.

Colchester have announced that they have offered new contracts to Tom Eastman, Drey Wright, Dillon Barnes, Femi Akinwande, Jack Curtis and Jamie Harney.

They have also offered new terms to midfielder Alex Gilbey but the academy product looks almost certain to leave the Weston Homes Community Stadium, this summer with Championship clubs Wigan Athletic and Bristol City said to be leading the race for his signature.

Colchester have a total of 22 players who are currently under contract, as new first-team coach John McGreal and director of football Tony Humes begin to shape the squad for next season.