St Patrick's Athletic have paid tribute to former captain Damien Byrne, who has died aged 71.
Byrne was the first St Pat’s player in 34 years to lift the league trophy after guiding Brian Kerr’s side to glory in the 1989/90 season as they edged out Derry City by just three points.
That season ended with Byrne collecting the SWAI Personality of the Year award, an achievement that carried extra significance as he had previously been crowned Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Player of the Year in the 1986/87 season for his performances with Irish League side Ards.
As well as St Pat’s and Ards, the striker turned defender represented Home Farm, Dundalk, Drogheda United, Shamrock Rovers and Crusaders.
"It is with great sadness we learn of the passing of the great Damien Byrne," St Pat’s said.
"After a very successful career as a striker in the Irish League and the LOI, Damien converted to a teak tough centre half with the Saints under Brian Kerr.
"An inspirational leader, he captained the club to our first title in 34 years in 1990. He remained a hugely popular figure around the club. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Byrne, who also won a Leinster Senior Cup with St Pat’s, played in the 1976 FAI Cup final for Drogheda in a 1-0 loss to Bohemians.
