Richie Towell joins Rotherham United from Brighton on a season-long loan

Former Dundalk midfielder Richie Towell has returned to English Championship side Rotherham United on a season-long loan from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Dubliner Towell spent last season on loan at the New York Stadium and made 45 appearances as the Millers were promoted through the play-offs.

The 26-year-old was a popular figure at the club after scoring six goals in his first spell but it looked unlikely he'd be allowed leave Brighton as the loan deadline approached on Friday evening.

Towell had offers elsewhere but, having been in constant contact with Millers boss Paul Warne, the decision to return to the Championship club was an easy one.

“I'm delighted to be back,” Towell told the club's website.

“It's taken a bit longer than I would have liked to get sorted, but it's done now. I'm over the moon and I'm just really excited to get started.

“I spoke to the gaffer most days over the course of the transfer window and he's been great with me, and the fans have been texting me and messaging me on instagram.

“I know they wanted me to get back, and I wanted to come back. It's going to be a tough year. We were very successful last year and hopefully we can build on that.”

Former Crumlin United youth Towell began his senior career with Celtic and had a spell with Hibernian before returning to Ireland with Dundalk in 2014.