MARK Clyde and Graham Ward have dealt Worcester City a double summer blow by leaving the club.

Clyde has decided to leave his post as assistant manager, while right-back Ward has rejected terms to stay at St George’s Lane.

The Irishmen have been major players for City in recent seasons with Ward, who started the campaign as captain, making 194 appearances since joining in October 2006.

Former Wolves centre-half Clyde relaunched his career at Worcester two years ago after being forced to retire from the professional game with a long-term knee problem.

Although that injury restricted him to just 11 starts this term, he had proved himself an able deputy.

Manager Carl Heeley said: “I have been speaking with Mark for a week or so and he’s unfortunately decided to leave the club.

“From a personal point of view I am disappointed he’s decided to go but I respect his decision and I will always be grateful for the help he has given me. I have enjoyed working with him.”

He added: “An offer was made to Graham but he rejected it. I urged him to take some time but he didn’t want to do that so, as things stand, he has left the club but the door has not been slammed in his face.”

However, centre-half Rob Elvins has agreed a new deal and joins fellow defender Ryan Clarke and midfield duo Tom Thorley and Kevin O’Connor on the books for next season.

Offers have also been made to 20-goal striker Danny Glover, midfield trio Simon Richman, Gary Walker and Matt Birley and utility player Neil Cartwright.

Heeley is also due to hold talks with midfielders Gavin Hurren, Josh Quaynor and Kyonn Evans as well as defender Asa Charlton and striker Marc McGregor.

Left-back Shabir Khan and goalkeeper Tim Sandercombe, who both had knee surgery, have been invited to prove their fitness in pre-season.

The City boss added: “The offers made give us the opportunity to bring in more players. I have to try and improve the squad and the numbers with similar resources.”