Kilmarnock have confirmed the departure of David Lilley to join Allan Johnston and Grant Murray in leaving the club.
The Lanarkshire club have confirmed they are cutting the size of the squad and Jim Jefferies has been warned his transfer budget will shrink from last season.
“Jim Jefferies has been informed that there are currently no plans to reduce the first team squad budget next season, which has been increased in each of the previous three seasons to its current level of circa £2 million,” a Kilmarnock statement read.
“However, it is not intended to repeat last season’s £250,000 expenditure on transfer fees and related player and agent costs.
“Last season the club commenced the SPL campaign with a first team squad of 34 players, plus 14 full time Under 19 professionals. It was recognised that the squad size should be reduced and the intention is to commence season 2009-10 with 21 outfield players and three goalkeepers, in line with the majority of SPL clubs.”
The statement continued: “The club wishes to extend its thanks and best wishes to 'out of contract' players Allan Johnston, David Lilley and Grant Murray who have been great servants to the club over a period of several years and have always displayed a highly professional approach to their training and playing duties.
“club captain, Gary Locke, is also out of contract but has been offered a coaching role with a view to retaining the benefit of his extensive experience. He is considering his options at present.
“Scott Anson, Paul McInnes and Thomas Nolan joined the first team squad last season having graduated from the club’s youth development scheme. As part of the planned reduction in the size of the first team squad, they have not been offered new contracts.”