Southampton have made significant squad changes at the end of the season following their drop into the Championship.
The club from the South Coast were confirmed for relegation from the Premier League back in April, still having seven matches left to play.
Returning to the second division of English football is expected to cause considerable financial pressure on the club.
As a measure to reduce expenses, they have let go of 12 players, among them is former Liverpool standout and England international Adam Lallana.
Young players Derrick Abu, Josh Lett, Josh McNamara, and Lewis Payne have also been released from their contracts at the club`s home ground, St Mary`s.
Additionally, academy scholars James Martin, Tevin Myers, Alfie Prescott, Ben Sheaf, and Harry Upstell will be leaving the club.
Lallana, who is 37 years old, is not the only well-known player departing Southampton this month.
Kyle Walker-Peters and Joe Lumley are also scheduled to leave the club as their current deals expire.
However, Lallana might potentially remain at St Mary`s when the Championship season commences in August.
There are reports linking the midfielder with a potential coaching position under the newly appointed manager Will Still.
Still, aged 32, signed a three-year contract with Southampton last month, taking over from Ivan Juric, who departed after the club`s relegation to the Championship was confirmed.
Still expressed enthusiasm for the task ahead, stating:
“There is immense potential at this club, and we have a fantastic chance to achieve something extraordinary.”
“The plan presented to me is highly impressive, and collectively, I am confident we can forge a distinct identity and a promising future for the squad.”
“I am keen to begin working this summer and cultivate a cohesive unit that can instil pride in everyone and ultimately return us to our rightful place – the Premier League.”
