BBC Hereford and Worcester's Carson Wishart, who has covered most of Hereford's games this season, has commented about the retained list released by the club earlier today.
"There are a couple of surprises in there," he said.
"I'm quite surprised about Lawson D'Ath because he has been a bit of a stalward at the Bulls. 67 appearances since joining in 2024.
"He is on the released list but he is 33 years old, he's had quite a few injuries during the season.
"Another veteran of the club, a war horse, Matt Preston the center-back, 6ft 2in all action, he heads everything, literally puts his body on the line, he's gone as well.
"I can understand it because they are of a certain age and they've had injuries.
"I think Aaron Downes, the new manager, needs to free up the wage bill as well to bring in his own squad and make some permanent signings.
"On the positive on the retained list is Harrison Sonha. He made his debut for Villa in the FA Cup against Liverpool in 2021. He went on to Sunderland.
"He was set to have a big future in the game but then dropped down to Cheltenham. Not sure what happened there but he landed up at Hereford.
"He's a real quality player. You look at him and you think he could be playing a couple of levels above so I think that is a big boost for Hereford.
"And Joe James, defender. He signed from Bristol City in February. Lots of composure.
"Downes needs to build a squad that can challenge for the play-offs next season."
Whilst D'Ath is released Preston Bitemo is retained.
"They are probably thinking we have younger players like Preston Bitemo who has been on loan at Kettering, 20 years old.
"They've retained him so perhaps they think that's the future in terms of getting younger legs in there."
Wishart's comments from BBC Total Sport.
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