Ryan Hampshire heads list of Wakefield departures

Wakefield have confirmed seven players will leave the club when their contracts expire at the end of November.

Heading that list is Ryan Hampshire, who expressed his frustration at contract negotiations recently, and also includes Keegan Hirst, who has already agreed to join Halifax.

Australian Tyler Randell is to return home, Chris Annakin has joined Dewsbury, and Anthony England, Luke Hooley, Lewis Wray will all depart.

Chief executive Michael Carter said: “I wish all the players that are leaving us the very best for the future and thank them for the service they have given Wakefield Trinity.

“I’d like to make a special mention regarding Chris Annakin, who was our longest serving player having first joined the Club in 2007. When he was brought back from loan during a crucial time in the season, his attitude and desire were first class to try and help this Club survive despite knowing he would not get a new contract. I cannot thank him enough for his efforts during this spell and indeed over the last 12 years.

“Tyler (Randell) has moved back to Australia for family reasons and he let us know this half way through the year. I wish him and his family all the best for the future.

“I wish Anthony England and Keegan Hirst all the best for the future at their new clubs. Keegan’s try against Wigan at the end of 2017 is still one of my favourite moments at this Club.

“Lewis Wray and Luke Hooley leave without playing a first team game but I still believe they have bright futures in the game, and wish them well.

“And finally, it has not been possible to agree a new deal with Ryan Hampshire, despite every effort being made. I wish him well in the future.”

Loanees Morgan Escare, Chris Green and Adam Tangata have also left the club.

Wakefield hope to announce no fewer than five new signings in the coming weeks.