SKIPPER Paul Reid and long-serving defender Will Evans are two of the big-name departees in Eastleigh’s summer clear-out.

Manager Chris Todd promised major changes following the Spitfires’ failure to reach the Vanarama National League play-offs and has released eight players.

Reid and Evans are joined through the exit door by Lee Cook, Josh Payne, Jack Midson, Kaid Mohamed, Matty Fanimo and young goalkeeper Lewis Noice.

A statement said: “The club would like to thank each of them for their efforts and contributions whilst with us.

"It was very difficult to release quite a few of these players, some of whom have been with the club for a few years and have given us their total commitment whilst trying to help us progress.”

Staying put are Ross Flitney, James Constable, Joe Partington, Jai Reason, Luke Coulson, ex-Saint Dan Harding, Michael Green and Ross Lafayette who are all under contract for next season.

In addition to that eight-strong core, new deals have been offered to Andy Drury, Jamie Turley, Yemi Odubade and midfielder Ben Strevens, who finished the 2015/16 campaign as player-assistant manager.

“The conversations held with these players were extremely positive and the club are very hopeful that these players will remain with the club next season,” the statement continued.

The Spitfires have also offered first professional contracts to promising, young quartet Tony Lee, James Granger, Jack Smith and Jack Masterton.