Dundee United captain Dave Bowman is leaving Tannadice after a 12-year association with the club.
Manager Tommy McLean announced last night that they would not be offering the 34-year-old former Scotland midfielder a new deal. In fact, it has been apparent for some time that Bowman was likely to exercise his right to freedom of contract under the Bosman ruling.
He has already been strongly linked to continue his career with newly-promoted Dundee and his move to Dens Park should be completed during the summer. The United captain said: ''This is really a mutual decision.
''I didn't take part in a lot of our games this season and I am at a point in my career when I feel I have to be playing regularly. I am fit and I believe I have a few good years left in me yet. But I am leaving Tannadice with a lot of very happy memories - especially of my early days, when I was fortunate enough to play alongside some superb players.''
Bowman arrived at Tannadice from Coventry City in May, 1986, along with Jim McInally, who has already crossed the road to Dens. The former Hearts player made a total of 429 appearances for United and won two caps during his time at Tannadice.
McLean also revealed that United are releasing three more senior players - goalkeeper Ally Maxwell, former Scotland defender Stewart McKimmie and midfield man Ray McKinnon, who could have left due to freedom of contract to players aged 24 or over.
The United manager said last night: ''These players are all at the end of their contracts and we are now looking to the future of the club. We thank them for their service - especially Dave Bowman, because he has contributed so much over a lengthy period.''
Talks are continuing with Steven Pressley, Mark Perry, and Maurice Malpas, three others who are out of contract. It seems certain that Pressley and Perry will also join the summer exodus.
McLean last night denied he had been poised to make a move for Peterborough's Dutch goalkeeper, Bart Griemink, who is staying with the English club. The former Birmingham player was recommended to United but they decided to wait until they saw him in action.
Results and fixtures
Cup-winners' Cup Final - Chelsea 1 (Zola), VfB Stuttgart 0.
Play-Off Semi-finals, second legs: Div 1 - Charlton 1, Ipswich 0 (Agg: 2-0); Sunderland 2, Sheffield United 0 (Agg: 3-2).
Div 2 - Grimsby 1, Fulham 0 (Agg: 2-1); Northampton 3, Bristol Rovers 0 (Agg: 4-3).
Div 3 -Torquay 4, Scarborough 1 (Agg: 7-2); Colchester 3, Barnet 1 (aet. Agg: 3-2).
Trophy Centre Under-14 Shield Final - St Andrew's Academy (Paisley) 2, St Margaret's High (Airdrie) 6.
John Walker League Div 1 - Camelon 5, Armadale Thistle 2; Linlithgow Rose 2, Bo'ness United 1. Div 2 - Blackburn United 2, Broxburn Athletic 2. Pumpherston v Haddington (match off).
Digital Under-13 Cup final - Irvine Royal Academy 5, Auchinleck Academy 1.
Today's football
Toulon Under-21 Tournament. Group A - Argentina v South Africa (5.15), England v France (7.00).
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