Manchester City have released former England striker Darius Vassell among four other players.

As the Eastlands club strive to build a squad strong enough to challenge the 'big four', they have had to say goodbye to some solid servants.

Along with Vassell, City have released right back Danny Mills, German midfielder Dietmar Hamann and left back Michael Ball.

Manager Mark Hughes has opted not to renew contracts for the quartet as he seeks to sign big name players.