Town boss Joe Royle has wished departing striker Marcus Bent all the best for his career at Everton, a club where Royle himself spent time as both a player and a manager. The Blues are still waiting to hear back from a number of out of contract players but Royle is confident the majority will re-sign.

Royle told the club site Bent's exit is best for all concerned: "Marcus only had 12 months left on his contract and is also one of our higher wage earners so the move makes sense for us.

"It's also a good opportunity for Marcus. Everton are a great club with a marvellous tradition and I wish him the best of luck there."

The Town boss also confirmed that Jermaine Wright has told the club he will not be signing a new two-year deal: "Jamma has turned down our offer and that's official, so it looks as though he will be on his way."

Everton and Leeds have both been linked with Wright and Southampton were mentioned in connection with him towards the end of last season.

Royle expects the situation regarding the out-of-contract players to be settled when pre-season training starts: "We are back in training on Monday and I will be looking to confirm things then. I'm hopeful the others [Richard Naylor, Jim Magilton and Fabian Wilnis] will be signing new deals."

Chris Makin unofficially indicated his intention to sign a two-month deal to prove his fitness last month, while Lewis Price quickly committed to a two-year contract.

Midfielder Martijn Reuser still has a year left on his current deal but wants to leave Portman Road to gain first team football.

The Dutchman is set for negotiations regarding a move to Willem II soon and Royle says Town will also talk to the Dutch club: "We will be speaking to them next week about Martijn's situation."

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