Former The New Saints defender Connell Rawlinson has joined Port Vale, the Staffordshire club have announced.

Chester-born Rawlinson, 26, reportedly rejected a new TNS deal earlier this year and in the last hour, Vale boss Neil Aspin confirmed the free transfer as the defender joins on a one-year deal.

Meanwhile, eight players have been released by Scott Ruscoe as he ramps up his preparations for a return to pre-season ahead of another Champions League qualification campaign.

Topping the list of departures are striker Wes Fletcher and defender Steve Saunders, who both struggled with injuries in 2017/18 while signings such as Dean Ebbe, Kevin Kauber and Blaine Hudson all jumping ahead in the queue.

Youngster Jacob Farleigh, who spent the season on-loan at neighbours FC Oswestry Town is also released while highly-rated goalkeeper Andy Wycherley, who played two games deputising for Paul Harrison's suspension, is also let go.

The teenage keeper spent the season at Welsh side Guilsfield but had been on the radar of league clubs.

Ryan Pryce and Robbie Parry have also been released by Ruscoe, both having struggled to command a starting place under their former teammate despite playing a regular part under predecessor Craig Harrison.

Aron Hughes Jones and Aaron Jones have also been released with Ruscoe expecting to make as many new signings as he prepares to defend the Welsh Premier League for the first time since becoming manager.