Phil Parkinson reacts as five leave Sunderland - and has special praise for Duncan Watmore

Watmore is one of five players to be released by Sunderland as they prepare for what is set to be a significant summer rebuild.

The 26-year-old made 22 appearances this season as he continued his long-term recovery from two major ACL injuries.

He was one of the club's highest earners after bursting onto the scene during the club's Premier League stint.

The forward's resilience, humility, professionalism and commitment to the community made him one of the club's most popular figures during his seven-year association with the club.

Jack Baldwin, Alim Ozturk, Joel Lynch and academy graduate Ethan Robson will also depart at the end of this month.

"These are always very difficult decisions to make, no manager enjoys this part of the job," Parkinson said.

"But I want to put on record my thanks to all the lads that are leaving, and to wish them the very best of luck in the future.

"I want to make a special mention of Duncan - he is a great lad, great attitude, and he has just been desperately unfortunate with the injuries he has suffered.

"But all of these players leave with our very best wishes."

Sunderland are hopeful of retaining the services of Jon McLaughlin, Chris Maguire and Tom Flanagan, all of whom have been offered deals to extend their stay on Wearside.