Last updated 10:21, Sunday, 18 May 2008

ZIGOR Aranalde and Paul Arnison were last night released by Carlisle United as boss John Ward clears the decks to rebuild his squad for next season.

Heading out: Arnison, above, and Aranalde

By Jon Colman

Both defenders – influential figures in the club’s recent successes – were out of contract and were told by the Blues manager they would not have their deals renewed.

Ward has also released goalkeeper Grant Carson – younger brother of England ace Scott – while striker Kevin Gall has been made available for a free transfer despite having a year left on his current deal.

The Blues boss has offered new terms to midfield pair Grant Smith and Luke Joyce and hopes both will put pen to paper next week.

On axing popular duo Arnison and Aranalde, Ward said: “Both players have contributed a great deal to this football club, but we have to make football decisions and get them right.”

Former Hartlepool man Arnison has been with the Blues since 2003 while Aranalde, 35, joined in 2005 after United were promoted back into the Football League.