Torquay: Saah & Downes offered deals but seven released

Torquay boss Alan Knill has offered new deals to seven players including centre-backs Brian Saah and Aaron Downes, but has released seven others.

Experienced duo Danny Stevens and Joe Oastler head the list of those who will leave the club.

Winger Stevens, 26, had been with the club for six years and made 215 appearances, scoring 28 goals.

Oastler, 22, has established himself as the club's regular right-back for the past two seasons.

Also released are right-back Daniel Leadbitter, midfielder Craig Easton and forwards Lloyd Macklin, Saul Halpin and Karl Baker.

Top scorer Rene Howe is one of five other players offered a new deal, but it is understood that he will leave the club.

Also offered deals for 2013-14 are left-back Tom Cruise, strikers Ashley Yeoman and Ryan Jarvis, and reserve goalkeeper Martin Rice.

Knill will also open discussions with striker Elliot Benyon, who has come to the end of his contract at Southend United, but spent the last part of the season on loan at Plainmoor.