JACK Byrne has signed a one-year deal with Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock after having his Boundary Park contract torn up yesterday.

The 22-year-old was frozen out of Frankie Bunn’s plans having been suspended from all first-team duties since the opening week of pre-season and had been training with the youth team.

Having signed for Athletic in January following a successful loan spell, the former Wigan creative midfielder made 44 appearances, scoring eight goals.

The club said in a statement: “Oldham Athletic and Jack Byrne have mutually agreed to terminate his contract. The club would like to wish Jack luck for the future.”

The move brings an end to speculation linking the Dubliner with a return to the squad and – in some quarters – a switch to Holland.

News of Byrne’s departure has split opinion among supporters with some welcoming the end of the sorry saga – others lamenting the loss of one of the more gifted talents the squad had to offer.

One fan posted on Twitter: “No-one is bigger than the club – we move on.”

Another said: “Such a shame to see him gone.”

“Our most technically gifted player for years,” was one supporter’s response.

“Good on his day, but…” was a universal theme. Byrne, who started his career at Manchester City, then moved to the Netherlands before Blackburn, has courted controversy over the years with alleged rumours of attitude issues. Bunn has often talked of the need for “good characters” at the club in a harmonious dressing room – and for that reason, it’s maybe no surprise to see Byrne go.

A talent – for sure. A comrade in the trenches – possibly not.

The bombshell comes after Bunn signed highly-rated defensive midfielder Jordan Lyden on loan from Aston Villa’s under-23s squad until January 1.

Villa fans have been quick to endorse the Australian’s credentials – with many questioning why he hasn’t been given a chance in the first team.

“I can’t understand why Steve Bruce won’t play him,” said one.

“He’ll be a proper leader some day – I rate him highly,” was another response.

However, the 22-year-old is not available for today’s League Two clash with Crawley after missing yesterday’s noon registration deadline.

He will likely make his debut in Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy group game at home to Barnsley.