POPULAR striker Andy Cook was among a list of EIGHT players released by Grimsby Town yesterday.
However, Mariners boss Paul Hurst says letting centre-midfielder Scott Kerr go was the toughest decision of the lot.
Also departing are Clayton McDonald, Sam Hatton, Joe Colbeck, Dayle Southwell, Jamal Fyfield and Jonathan Hedge.
After spending yesterday telling the players of his decisions, Hurst admitted it is a part of the job he hates.
He told the Telegraph: "Without being unkind to the others, letting Scott go was the toughest decision I had.
"I've praised him on many occasions throughout this season, and that doesn't change.
"That wasn't lip service, and whoever gets him will get a very good player – we just needed a little change in that area."
On the departure of Town's 2012/13 top goalscorer Cook, the manager continued: "For Andy, it's important he finds somewhere where he has a better chance to start more games.
"There are quite a few of those lads, including Andy, who need to be playing to improve further.
"You can definitely improve on the training ground through hard work and taking things on board, but the game is the greatest test.
"But all the lads that I've let go are more than capable of enhancing someone's squad and team.
"I have to emphasise that, with every single one, it has been a pleasure to work with them.
"I wish them all the best for the future when they decide or find out where that is."
James McKeown, Andi Thanoj, Alex Rodman and Craig Disley are all mulling over new contract offers.
Meanwhile, Paul Bignot, Aswad Thomas and Lenell John-Lewis have triggered new deals – up until May 2015.
Hurst will speak with Scott Neilson and Chris Doig about their futures next week.
Youth-teamers Caine Winfarrah, Paul Walker and Ellis Humble have all been handed their first professional contracts.
Adding to the eight players leaving Blundell Park is Town goalkeeping coach Steve Croudson.
The former Mariners stopper heads for a similar position at a Premier League club – believed to be Hull City.
