Atkins, O'Connor, Gjokaj, Hoganson and Ball all released.

Derby County have released five out of contract players.

Goalkeeper Ross Atkins, defenders James O’Connor, Valentin Gjokaj and Michael Hoganson, as well as striker Callum Ball, were due to be out of contract this summer.

Head Coach Steve McClaren has made the players aware of his decision in order to help them find new clubs as early as possible.

Atkins and Ball are products of Derby’s Academy. Atkins made only one first-team appearances and gained first-team experience at several Conference and League 2 sides, while Ball scored three times in 31 appearances. He gained first-team experience at Coventry City, Torquay United and Notts County.

O’Connor joined from Doncaster Rovers in the summer of 2012 and made 23 appearances. He spent time on loan at Bristol City this season before suffering a thigh injury that required surgery.

Gjokaj and Hoganson arrived from FC Luzern and Newcastle United in 2012 and made a combined total of ten appearances for Derby’s first team, and recently spent time out on loan at Conference sides Barnet and Alfreton Town respectively.

Derby County would like to wish all five players the best of luck for the future and thank them for their services.

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