Former Portsmouth striker David Nugent has been released by Derby

Former Pompey striker David Nugent has left Derby after not having his contract renewed

The 34-year-old was one of five players the Rams decided to let go after their bid to reach the Premier League via the Championship play-offs came up short.

Nugent, who was linked with a return to Fratton Park in January, leaves Pride Park along with Ashley Cole, Efe Ambrose, Alex Pearce, and Marcus Olsson.

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He scored twice in 38 appearances for Frank Lampard’s side last season, with his last game coming in the 1-0 defeat to Leeds in the play-off semi-final first leg.

The one-time England international missed the play-off final defeat to Aston Villa because of injury.

Nugent spent four seasons at Pompey, after signing from Preston in a £6m in the summer of 2007.

He scored 20 goals in 93 appearances, before joining Leicester on a free transfer in July 2011.

The Scouser signed for Derby for £2.5m in January 2017.

Nugent scored 17 goals in 95 appearances for the Rams.

He has already been linked with a return to Preston.