Joe McKee ends loan spell with Dundalk

Joe McKee has returned to Falkirk concluding his short loan spell with Dundalk.

The 26-year-old joined the Lilywhites back in February on what was initially thought to be a six-month deal. However, that arrangement has been cut short with McKee now returning to Scotland. 

He had been brought to Oriel Park as midfield cover for the injured duo of Robbie Benson and Patrick McEleney but has made just five appearances in the SSE Airtricity League, starting only once.

That start came in last month’s 1-0 win over Bohemians at Oriel Park during which he was replaced by Chris Shields. McKee also started in the 2-1 win at St Patrick’s Athletic in the EA Sports Cup second round.

"Thanks to everyone at @DundalkFC for the past few months," said McKee on Twitter. "A great changing room that I’m sure will go onto have another successful season."

The Lilywhites club statement noted that “Dundalk FC can confirm that Joe McKee’s loan spell has reached its conclusion. 

“Everyone at the club would like to thank Joe for his effort, commitment and professionalism during his time at Oriel Park and wish him all the best in the future.”

A former Scotland under-19 international, he was on the books of Dundee United, Livingston as well as Burnley and also had a loan spell with St Mirren before signing for Bolton Wanderers in 2012.

After failing to break into the Bolton team, he returned to Scotland with Morton, where he played 64 league games and scored four goals before moving to Carlisle United for a short time in 2017.

He now returns to Falkirk, a club for which he has scored goals in 34 Scottish Championship outings.