The Premier League has officially released the list of players released by their clubs as of the end of the 2016/17 season, and aside from Zlatan Ibrahimovic there are a number of notable names included.
The more high-profile departures such as Darren Fletcher, Joey Barton, and John Terry have been known for some time, but there were also a number of surprises as well as many youth players being let go.
There were a number of Irish players on the release list, five to be precise, and while half of them are veterans in the final stages of their career, there was also a promising prospect from an Irish point of view released.
Shay Given (Stoke City)
No surprises there, as Shay announced that he would be retiring at the end of the season, calling time on an outstanding career as a universally respected Premier League goalkeeper.
John O'Shea (Sunderland)
Another one that was expected, Sheasie will be a big loss in the dressing room for Sunderland having become such an influential figure there after joining from Man Utd, but it's time for something new and we await news on the big man's next club after the international fixtures.
Zachary Elbouzedi (West Brom)
This one is a bit of a surprise as Elbouzedi has been a standout performer for Ireland at U19 and U17 level, and was someone we were hoping to get a run-out with the Baggies' first-team at some point soon, but he has been let go and while that looks disappointing it will offer him a better route to senior football and can hopefully play in the Premier League one day.
Rene Gilmartin (Watford)
A former St.Pats keeper, Gilmartin leaves Watford having made since 0 appearances since re-signing for the club in 2014, although he did play twice during his first spell at the club. Like all good back-up goalkeepers, he was believed to be a very popular member of the dressing room.
Alex Bruce (Hull City)
Famously made aware of the decision to let him go via Twitter, Bruce isn't leaving Hull City on the best of terms but has been a great servant over the past few seasons. Another one who will surely have offers as his experience will be sought-after.
You can check out the release list in full over on PremierLeague.com.
