Elmander among the departed at Bolton

Johan Elmander leads a host of names preparing to leave English Premier League club Bolton Wanderers.

Sweden forward Elmander – who hit 12 goals in all competitions for Bolton – elected not to sign a new deal at Bolton and joins Jlloyd Samuel, Joey O’Brien and Tamir Cohen in leaving the club on free transfers.

Elmander arrived at the Reebok Stadium in 2008 for a club-record deal of 8.2 million pounds, but is now expected to join Turkish club Galatasaray.

Owen Coyle paid tribute to the departing quartet, who have all been at the club for multiple seasons.

“I wish all the players who are departing the club all the very best,” Coyle said.

“I want to thank them for their efforts and professionalism. Ultimately when these decisions come about they’re made for footballing reasons.”

In further changes to Coyle’s squad, loanees Daniel Sturridge and Rodrigo have both returned to parent clubs Chelsea and Benfica respectively.

Sturridge was particularly impressive in his loan stint, hitting eight goals in 12 appearances.

Forward Robbie Blake has won a one-year extension to his Bolton contract, while the club is in negotiations to prolong the stay of winger Ricardo Gardner.

Goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi also returns to the club after a season-long loan at Premier League rivals Wigan.