Coventry release four stars including ‘club legend’ just weeks after almost knocking Man Utd out of FA Cup

COVENTRY captain Liam Kelly is one of four players to be released by the club.

Midfielder Kelly, 34, joined Mark Robins’ side in 2017 and made 180 appearances over a seven-year spell.

He was instrumental in their promotion to League Two via the 2018 play-offs.

Two years later he was then part of Coventry’s promotion to the Championship.

But the club have now confirmed his departure along with goalkeeper Simon Moore, right-back Dermi Lusal and winger Bradley Stretton.

And while Robins paid tribute to the quartet, he also took time to specifically praise ‘club legend’ Kelly for his contribution.

Speaking on the club’s website, he said: “I would like to thank those who are leaving for their time with us, the contributions they have made to Coventry City and wish them all the best in their future careers.

“Liam Kelly in particular will be rightly lauded as a club legend. He has been a consummate professional on and off the pitch and an integral part of Coventry City’s rise through the divisions in recent years.

“I would also like to thank Simon, Dermi and Bradley and wish them every success for the future.”

Former Bristol City, Oldham and Leyton Orient man Kelly was an unused substitute in Coventry’s thrilling FA Cup semi-final defeat by Manchester United last month.

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The championship team came from 3-0 down to send the game into overtime, only to lose on penalties.

They also had a goal disallowed for marginal offside in the final seconds of extra time.

Coventry finished ninth in the Championship this season, nine points off the play-off places.

It comes after they reached Wembley last season, only to lose to Luton on spot kicks.