FORMER Cougars player Tommy Gallagher has made one of the "toughest decisions" of his career.

The Leeds Academy product has been granted his release from Dewsbury Rams due to increased work and family commitments.

Gallagher, who has had two spells at Batley Bulldogs – plus stints at Hull KR, London Broncos, Toulouse Olympique, Widnes (twice), Rochdale Hornets and Leigh – was unable to fully commit to Dewsbury's training schedule.

Rams head coach Glenn Morrison and chairman Mark Sawyer have agreed to his request and 31-year-old Gallagher has agreed a deal for a second spell with Swinton Lions, which will allow him to be closer to home.

Dewsbury-born Gallagher, who was brought up in Birstall and played for Keighley in 2002, wrote a letter to the Rams players, coaches, staff, sponsors and supporters, saying: "This has been one of the toughest decisions of my rugby league career.

"Due to additional work and family commitments, it would have been almost impossible for me to attend training and match days.

"I have had a great two years at Dewsbury and have made friends for life. I will 100 per cent miss the players, staff and club.

"I think I've played some of my best rugby over the last two years. I can't thank Mark Sawyer and the club enough for how this has been dealt with.

"For them to say I'd be welcomed back is testament to what a great family club Dewsbury Rams is and a reflection of why so many of the current squad have stayed together.

"I'd like to say a massive thanks to Glenn Morrison, who has been very understanding and is one of the best coaches I have worked with. I feel as a player and a person I'm better for knowing him.

"He is not just my coach but a true friend as well and the club will only go forward under his leadership. I would like to personally wish him well for the future.

"To the players and supporters, I also want to say a big thank you. I have enjoyed every minute of my time at the club and hope 2015 is a successful year for all involved."

Morrison was quick to pay tribute to Gallagher, who scored 18 tries in 52 appearances for the Rams and was voted the inaugural Amber Ribbon player of the year in 2014.

"We're very disappointed to lose Tommy because he's been an outstanding player for us during the last two years," said Morrison.

"He's been first class on and off the field and it's hard to replace players who have such a big impact at a club.

"It is disappointing for the players, and for the fans too, I'm sure – but we move on with our preparations for 2015 and a new era with great confidence."

Morrison confirmed that the club would welcome Gallagher back "with open arms" should his circumstances change.

"Tommy has agreed a deal to join Swinton Lions, which will allow him to be closer to home and his family," said the Dewsbury coach.

"However, there is an agreement in place that would ensure he rejoins the Rams should his circumstances change.

"We wish Tommy the very best for the future and we'd welcome him back with open arms should the opportunity arise."