WORCESTER City have released midfielder Steve Lutz and teenage utility player Wesley Joyce.

But manager John Barton has also placed midfielder Marc Burrow and striker Mark Shepherd on contracts, while six other players have agreed new deals.

Barton said the decision to release Lutz, who was in his second spell at St George's Lane, was a tough one.

"I thought when I first came to the club, he led from the front in terms of attitude and commitment and was a key player in our revival. But he has had a couple of injuries this year.

"It was tough decision but all decisions that have been made are in the best interests of the club."

Former youth team player Joyce had his moments during the season, scoring two stunning goals in their Dr Martens Cup win over Newport.

But Barton said: "I certainly wasn't prepared to come near his requirements, on the back of the indiscipline that he has shown on a quite a few occasions.

"He is a young player and for his own sake I hope he goes and proves me wrong."

Burrow and Shepherd, who joined City last season from Bromsgrove and Moor Green respectively, have both signed contracts although Barton declined to reveal their length.

Barton added: "Marc has deserved that, and he has been a pleasure to have around. How much further he can improve is down to him. He still has things to prove."

Defenders Chris Greenman and Martin Weir, midfielders Carl Heeley, Ian Cottrill and Paul Carty and winger Mike Wyatt have also signed new deals, with Carty having been given another chance after being transfer-listed last season.

City's other players are already under contract although defender Mark Tucker remains on the transfer-list.

The only player whose future has not been finalised is defender Andy Bradley. Barton added: "He is thinking over the situation."