Former Ireland under-21 striker Sam Byrne joins Bohemians from Dundalk

Former Ireland under-21 striker Sam Byrne has left Dundalk to sign for Bohemians ahead of the upcoming campaign, having made just two league appearances for last year’s double-winners.

The former Everton striker had been training with Bohs over the past number of weeks following the termination of his contract at Dundalk, which wasn’t due to expire until the end of the 2019 season.

He scored from the penalty spot for Bohs in a pre-season friendly against Longford Town at Dalymount Park on Tuesday night – a match in which the Gypsies ran out 4-0 winners.

He is the second new signing in as many days for Long’s side, who brought in former Scotland under-19 midfielder Scott Allardice, who had also been on trial, from Dundee United just one day earlier.

“Sam is a player who I have known for many years,” Bohs manager Keith Long told the Gypsies’ media team.

“I am pleased that we are in a position to try and help him rediscover his undoubted potential and ability.”

Having started his career with Manchester United via St Joseph's Boys, Byrne’s time at Oriel Park was marred by recurring injury problems which had started during his time in the Everton reserves.

Byrne made a total of just six appearances in Dundalk colours with his only goal, incidentally, coming against Bohs in a Leinster Senior Cup tie.

A loan spell in the Irish League with Glentoran followed but he again failed to establish himself, making six appearances from the substitutes bench before his stint at The Oval was cut short.