Ruddock has not played a first-team match for Swindon since last December.

The former Liverpool, Southampton and West Ham defender has struggled to keep his weight in check and only started 14 games for Swindon last season.

The veteran was brought to the County Ground by former Liverpool manager Roy Evans, who resigned as boss after a short spell in charge of the club.

Ruddock's future has been in doubt ever since and his lack of match fitness has been well documented.

Despite losing a stone, Ruddock - who also has a coaching role at the County Ground - is still considered overweight by Swindon boss Phil King.

Swindon chief executive Mark Devlin said: "Manager Andy King has indicated that the player is not fit to play first-team football.

"He is also unable to complete a full training regime alongside the other players."

Ruddock's high wages are also a factor in Swindon's decision to try to offload him.

His contract, which still has two years to run, is believed to be worth around �250,000 a year.

Devlin added: "His wages account for over 20% of the playing budget.

"If we can find Neil another club where he could have a more positive future, this money can be utilised to bring in new players."