Mark Byrne has this evening announced that he won’t be taking Gillingham boss Steve Evans up on his offer to return to pre-season training.

Byrne instead plans to return to his native Ireland to continue his playing career.

In a posting on Twitter, the 31-year-old loveable Irishman broke the disappointing news by saying, “I’ve decided I won’t be returning for pre-season. I was disappointed with how things went after my injury but before that I really enjoyed my time at Gills.”

“I want to thank the players and staff I’ve worked with for the last four years at the club. I have made some great friends.”

“A big thank you goes out to the fans. You lot have been brilliant to me the last four years. I gave it my all every week and think you guys knew that.”

“I wish the Gaffer and the lads all the best for the season ahead. But now after fourteen years of football in the UK, with my knee is almost ready, it’s time for a new challenge at home in Ireland.”

“Cheers Byrner, UTG!”

Byrne was signed for the Gills by Justin Edinburgh in June 2016 and over the next four years went onto make 157 appearances for the club netting eleven times, becoming a fans favourite along the way.