Chris Forrester has signed a new "long term" deal with St. Patrick's Athletic. 

2021 has arguably been the 29-year old's best since his return to the SSE Airtricity League from Aberdeen, culminating in last week's FAI Cup final win over his former side, Bohemians.

Forrester not only scored the Pat's goal at the Aviva, but notched another 8 in the league along with four assists. He was also nominated for PFAI Player of the Year.

It had been feared Forrester could be tempted to follow former Saints head coach Stephen O'Donnell to Dundalk.

"I am delighted to be back at the club and thankful for another opportunity to play for a club that means so much to me," he said, "I can't wait to get going again next season."

Pat's chairman Garrett Kelleher added, "Chris has had a great season with the club and is thoroughly deserving of his nomination for PFAI Player of the Season, he will continue to be an integral part of the club over the next few years.

"On behalf of the board and myself we are excited about what the future holds for the club with personalities like Chris here."

While one playmaker commits to staying in Dublin, another is making a break up the M1.

Keith Ward is poised to end his second spell with Bohemians, and sign for Dundalk. His name was a notable absentee from the 11 players confirmed to be returning to Bohs next season.

The 31-year old - who missed the vital penalty in last week's Cup final - already has a spell at Dundalk under his belt, having spent the 2013 and 2014 seasons at Oriel Park.

Mayo’s Keith Higgins named Nickey Rackard player of the year