Seven in Molineux exodus

Football

Geoff Thomas, the former Crystal Palace and England midfielder, is one of seven players freed by Wolves as they strive to cut costs following their failure to reach the Premiership. Andy Thompson, signed with Steve Bull from West Brom in 1986, has also been released.

Dutch side Twente Enschede are keen to sign Darren Ferguson, son of the Manchester United manager, Alex, after he impressed watching Twente officials in Wolves' play-off games. Ferguson Jr has yet to agree a new deal with the club.

Nigel Clough, who spent much of last season on loan from Manchester City to Nottingham Forest, is on the shortlist to succeed Fred Davies as Shrewsbury manager. The Telford manager, Jake King, is favourite in a field that also includes Gordon Cowans, Derek Mountfield and Kevin Sheedy. Meanwhile, Graeme Sharp, who was sacked by Oldham three months ago, has taken over as manager of League of Wales club Bangor City.

Ally McCoist is set to see out the remaining year of his Rangers contract. It had been suggested that McCoist might leave Rangers, but he is to take the first steps towards a long-term future at Ibrox by working with Rangers' commercial manager, Bob Reilly.

Howard Wilkinson, the Football Association's technical director, will point the way ahead for the English game today when he publishes his blueprint for change. The report is expected to stress the need for more resources for youth development and a uniform coaching structure.