Igoe scored at Wembley in the League Two play-off final (Getty)

Bristol Rovers head coach Paul Trollope has confirmed he is releasing midfielder Sammy Igoe and defender Chris Carruthers, both out of contract.

"They played big parts in the success the football club's had, I have total respect for them," he told BBC Radio Bristol.

"But football clubs move on, and if you stand still you're going backwards."

Both players featured in Rovers' League Two play-off final win at Wembley last year and Igoe scored late in the game.

Trollope said both players had given good service in their time at the Memorial Stadium.

"Sammy [Igoe] came to us on loan from Millwall a few years ago, and then he came to us on trial in pre-season which people seem to forget.

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"He came without being paid which shows what type of lad he is.

"He played a huge part in our success last season and the goal will be remembered for decades - not only in terms of his importance but the type of goal it was and the time in the game."

Igoe made 94 appearances in just over two years as a Rovers player, scoring six goals.

The 32-year-old spent the last part of the current season on loan at Hereford United, helping them achieve promotion from League Two.

Chris Carruthers signed for Rovers initially on loan from Northampton in March 2005, and scored one goal in 128 appearances for the club.

"Chris has played a big part, he's been frustrated recently that he's had a lack of first-team opportunities," said Trollope.

"Again, he played a big part in our success last year. His involvement was great in what we achieved so we'd like to thank him for his efforts and wish him well for the future.

"I'm sure he'll get a league club and do well for himself."