ACCRINGTON Stanley captain Luke Joyce has ended his six-year association with the Reds to return to Carlisle United.

The midfielder was offered a new contract by manager John Coleman, but has signed a two-year deal at Brunton Park.

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“It’s disappointing to lose Luke as he’s been one of the best players we’ve had for a long time,” said manager John Coleman. “The most disappointing thing is that we believed he would sign his new contract but that’s football and in football life goes on. I told him it was pointless him staying if he wasn’t sure. No good for us and no good for him.

“He’s been a good and consistent performer for us so you have to take your hat off to him for that and applaud all that he has done for the club, who in turn have looked after him over the years.

“We wish him all the best for the future with Carlisle; apart from in the games he plays against us, obviously!”

Joyce initially joined Carlisle after leaving first club Wigan in 2006 and spent three years with the Cumbrians before signing for Stanley as a free transfer.

He went on to make almost 280 appearances for the Reds.