Breen is released by Black Cats

SUNDERLAND skipper Gary Breen has been released following the club’s relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship.

The 32-year-old is out of contract this summer and has been told he will not be offered a new deal after three years at the Stadium of Light.

Goalkeeper Joe Murphy has joined Scunthorpe and midfielder Martin Woods was told earlier this week he could leave.

Justin Hoyte and Anthony Le Tallec have returned to Arsenal and Liverpool respectively after season-long loan deals, while striker Andy Gray is expected to join Burnley after a temporary move to Turf Moor. The club have exercised an option to hand injury-plagued striker Kevin Kyle a one-year extension to his existing contract. Youngsters Dan Smith and Grant Leadbitter, were out of contract but have been offered deals.