Oxford United are in for a busy summer after taking the bold step of telling almost half the senior squad they will not be offered new contracts.

Damian Batt, Michael Duberry and Peter Leven were among a group of 12 players released following face-to-face talks with boss Chris Wilder yesterday.

It freed up plenty of space in the playing budget to reshape the squad this summer as they look to build a team capable of reaching at least the npower League Two play-offs next season.

There was better news for Alfie Potter and Andy Whing, who are staying after the U’s activated a clause in the pair’s contracts which will keep them at the club for another 12 months.

Deane Smalley and Scott Davies are considering new offers to stay, while the club are planning to hold talks with Luke O’Brien this summer.

While most of the decisions were expected, Batt’s name stood out among the group released.

The 28-year-old was United’s first-choice right back for all but a brief spell since arriving in 2009 and had a good fitness record.

He tweeted: “I would like to thank the fans for giving me an amazing four and a half years at a fantastic club.

“It has been the best time of my career which you guys have played a part in and I will miss it, but life is about new challenges and that is what I need.”

Batt’s exit provoked the most surprise for supporters.

Commenting on the Oxford Mail’s website, BigAlBiker said: “Damian Batt deserved a deal as he was a regular full back and did well. “The rest was as expected apart from Smalley.”

Ben Warren tweeted: “Shocking that Damian Batt wasn’t given a contract in my opinion.

“The rest I could take or leave, but not Damian.”

As the players are still under contract they were not allowed by United to give interviews, but Duberry was another exiting player who left a message for supporters. “It’s disappointing to be rel-eased, but that’s football. I have had a great 2yrs,” he tweeted.

“From day one the #yellowarmy have welcomed and embraced me into the #oufcfamily so for that many thanks.

“I hope the club moves in a forward direction and gets promotion next year.”