Shaun McWilliams available for free transfer after talks break down with Rotherham
Shaun McWilliams will be available for a free transfer this summer after talks broke down over extending his stay at Rotherham United.
The Cobblers academy graduate, who played 200 times for Northampton, left Sixfields to join the Millers in 2024, signing a two-year contract that included an option for an extra year. However, Rotherham, who will join Town in League Two next season, appointed former England boss Steve McClaren in a newly-created role as head of football this week, and the club have since decided not to keep the 27-year-old midfielder – despite not yet appointing a new manager.
A statement on Friday said: “Rotherham United can confirm that Shaun McWilliams, Dru Yearwood and Josh Ayres will depart the club upon the conclusion of their respective contracts this summer. Following lengthy discussions between football personnel, it has been decided that a further trio of players will depart on 30th June for pastures new and they leave with our thanks for their contributions and best wishes for the future.
“The Millers had maximised the period in which considerations were made regarding the futures of McWilliams and Yearwood – whose contracts both contained options that enabled the club to extend their deals by a further year – but the decision has been taken to allow both players to leave AESSEAL New York Stadium this summer.
“As was shared upon publication of the club’s retained list, the Millers had entered into dialogue with Ayres and his representatives regarding the prospect of extending his stay in Rotherham. Those discussions have now concluded and he will join McWilliams and Yearwood in departing for a new challenge.
“The club can confirm conversations are ongoing with Jack Holmes regarding the possibility of a new contract. Everyone at Rotherham United would like to thank the aforementioned players for their efforts whilst contracted in South Yorkshire.”