YOKER stalwart Neil Schoneville has left the club for First Division rivals Rutherglen Glencairn.

After spending five seasons with the Whe-Ho, having only missed a handful of games, the defender has revealed he is sad to be leaving John Brogan's side.

However, the 31-year-old centre back believes he is leaving a team capable of reaching the Super League Premier Division.

He said: "I have a lot of good memories from Yoker and loved my time there.

"Apart from my first year, when we got relegated, we won the Central District Second Division, then the next season got promoted from the First to the Super League First.

"We were close this season to getting promoted, but it shows how far we have come with almost the same squad.

"I really believe, with a couple of new faces, Yoker could press on and get promoted to the Premier League.

"The quality of players, along with management and the hard work of the committee and backing of fans, the club is strong.

"I need to thank them all for what they have done for me, there isn't one thing I would change and I owe a lot to the club.

"However, when I am back next season, I hope it is on the winning side." He added: "The main reason I am going is because I need to play somewhere closer to home, and Glencairn works for me.

"It is not a footballing reason, I enjoyed playing at Yoker, but with the time and distance to get to games and training, it makes sense for me to play closer to home." After losing one of his key players, manager John Brogan said: "We wish Neil all the best for the future and I would like to thank him for what he has done at the club.

"He has been great for us and has always given his all - he has been a great professional."