Burnley release Thompson and McDonald

The Scottish pair have not been offered new deals to replace their current contracts which expire next month.

Howe said: “We thank both players for their efforts during their time at Turf Moor and wish them all the best in their future careers.”

Thompson, leaves Turf Moor after spending almost three seasons with the Clarets following his arrival from Cardiff City in August, 2008.

The Scotland international, 32, was a play-off winner a year later as Burnley clinched promotion to the Premier League.

The former Rangers striker, who has featured mainly as a substitute this season, is now expected to return to Scotland to continue his career.

Midfielder McDonald joined Burnley from Dundee in June, 2008 and helped the Clarets to promotion in his first season at Turf Moor.The 22-year-old, who scored a memorable goal as Burnley beat Arsenal in the Carling Cup at Turf Moor in December, 2008, made 26 appearances in the top flight, but figured only once this season before going out on loan to Scunthorpe United and Notts County.

Also leaving Turf Moor this summer is Dutch midfielder Remco Van Der Schaaf, 32, who this season has seen out the remainder of his three-year-contract on loan with Danish side Brøndby IF.

However, one player staying on at Turf Moor is Wade Elliott after he signed a new contract in December 2010 to replace the deal originally due to expire this summer.

The long-serving midfielder, 32, has agreed terms until June, 2013.