A host of Premier League players have been released by their clubs after the summer transfer window officially opened this morning.

The release list includes some stalwarts of the league, some of whom were expected to leave but some of whom have come as a surprise.

The likes of Didier Drogba, Michael Owen and Emile Heskey have graced the league with their presence and goals for a number of years but their clubs have decided not to renew their contracts.

In addition to getting rid of Drogba, Chelsea will also say goodbye to fellow Champions League winners Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa.

Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, have chosen not to renew the contracts of Louis Saha and Ryan Nelson, with the long-serving Ledley King also included on the list, although he is expected to remain at the club in some capacity.

Fulham have included January signing Pavel Pogrebnyak on the release list, although the Russian striker is expected to make a decision on his future this week. The Cottagers have also decided not to keep Danny Murphy or Andrew Johnson on the books for another season.

Newly-relegated Bolton Wanderers have released the most players, with long-serving goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen one of 12 players not to have their contracts renewed.

Sunderland's £9m goalkeeper Craig Gordon has also been let go, while both Manchester clubs have released players too. For United, Thomas Kuszczak has followed Owen out of Old Trafford, while City have said goodbye to Owen Hargreaves and manager Roberto Mancini's son Andreas.

West Bromwich Albion have released Paul Scharner, while Queens Park Rangers will bid farewell to Clint Hill and Wigan Athletic will do the same to Hugo Rodallega.