JAMIE McDonagh has thanked Morton supporters and his team-mates for playing their part in an ‘unforgettable season’ as he leaves the club to return home.

McDonagh topped the list of players who would not be renewing their contracts at the end of the campaign along with striker Kudus Oyenuga, Conor Pepper and Jon Scullion.

But the striker-turned-right back insists there’s no hard feelings about his departure. 

A tinge of disappointment is understandable, however, as the 21-year-old has enjoyed a decent season for the Ton.

Having played in plenty of big games over the course of an impressive season all-round for the squad, McDonagh is delighted to have been involved in such a terrific effort. 

Particular highlights included playing at the home of his boyhood heroes, beating St Mirren in the league for the first time in 17 years and the Betfred Cup semi-final at Hampden Park.

And he maintains these memories will last a lifetime as he prepares for his next destination — wherever that may be.
McDonagh exclusively told the Tele: “That’s me finished at Morton now. 

“There were a few problems at the beginning of the season and the gaffer thought it was best if I went back home and spent some time with my family.

“It’s a bit disappointing because I wanted to stay at Morton, I wanted to be a Morton player but that decision wasn’t up to me, it was down to the manager and I think he had my best interests in his mind, and he thought it was the right decision to let me go.

“At this moment in time I don’t really know if I’ll be going back home to play football. I just want to spend some time with my family, re-think things and see if anything pops up with my agent. 

“He’s going to try and sort a few things out and speak to a few clubs.

“The main thing for me was about stability in my career. I needed a long contract because obviously I have a young family, and I don’t think that was going to happen at Morton. It was just something Morton couldn’t give me.

“When I joined the expectations were that I didn’t think I’d get to where I am today. Some of the games I’ve played in were very high profile games, for example playing against Rangers at Ibrox, it was something I never thought would happen. 

“These are memories that will stay with me throughout my life and I can’t thank Morton enough for giving me the opportunity to do that.

“I’d like to think the fans appreciated what the entire team did throughout the season, we gave them something special. 

“Getting to the semi-final of a cup, doing so well in the league it leaves so many memories for the fans and myself so I’ll always remember it.

“I know a bit about the club from being there throughout the year. 

“The St Mirren game at home was very big for the fans and we appreciate that so much. 

“The squad has been a great squad to be involved with this season and the fans have been terrific all season by being our 12th man.”