Shrewsbury Town captain Ian Sharps is next to leave

Captain Ian Sharps has become the third member of Shrewsbury Town's promotion-winning squad to leave the Greenhous Meadow, admitting it was his "toughest decision in football".

The 31-year-old defender has rejected a contract offer from Town and is understood to be on the brink of agreeing a return to his former club Rotherham.

Sharps arrived from the Millers two years ago and made 97 appearances for Town, skippering them to a play-off semi-final defeat before spearheading this season's charge to the first promotion of his career.

"It is the toughest decision I have ever had to make in football," said Sharps, who has made the PFA League Two team of the year for the last three seasons.

"I sat down with my wife and discussed the pros and cons for many an hour and there was a tear in my eye.

"I've had two brilliant years at Shrewsbury but sometimes you have to make a decision and only time will tell if it's the right one.

"There are no hard feelings and the gaffer and all the staff have been brilliant.

"I've learned more in the last two years than I have at any other time in my career.

"I really do wish Shrewsbury well for the future."

A statement released by the club read: "Shrewsbury Town are disappointed that Ian Sharps has rejected the offer of a new contract and has indicated he will be signing for another club.

"We would like to take the opportunity of thanking Ian for his contribution over the past two seasons, culminating in our promotion to League One.

"Whilst we are disappointed Ian will not be with us next season, we wish him the best of luck."

The Scouser has joined Preston-bound duo Shane Cansdell-Sherriff and Nicky Wroe in heading for the exit door from last season's out- of-contract players.

The club are still waiting to hear whether leading scorer James Collins – who has been named in the Republic of Ireland under-21 squad for games against Denmark and Italy in the next fortnight – and goalkeeper Chris Neal will sign fresh deals.

See also:

• Cansdell-Sherriff hails Shrewsbury Town fans

• Ex-Shrewsbury Town pair backed to succeed at Preston

• James Collins in talks over Shrewsbury Town future