Hearts ace Olly Lee shares Gillingham goodbye message as he heads back to Tynecastle

The Englishman has spent the last season on loan in League One

Olly Lee is set for a return to Hearts after spending the past season on loan at Gillingham.

The midfielder sent a goodbye message to the English League One club on Instagram.

He said: “Really enjoyed my time and wish everyone all the best @gfcofficial”.

Olly Lee is set to return to Hearts. Picture: SNS

Prior to football’s postponement, Lee had made 33 appearances for the Gills, emerging as a key player under Steve Evans. He hit six goals, including two on his debut after joining in August, while creating more for team-mates.

The 28-year-old became a popular figure at Tynecastle after moving to Edinburgh from Luton Town in the summer of 2018 as Craig Levein overhauled the squad.

He formed a formidable midfield partnership with Peter Haring and his most memorable moment came in the Edinburgh derby at Easter Road towards the end of December when he hit the winner with a stunning striker.

Lee, however, fell out of favour with Craig Levein. He was in and out of the team towards the end of last season and didn’t feature prior to his move at the end of the summer transfer window.

Gillingham boss Evans revealed to the Evening News he would be keen to retain his services with Lee having another year to run on his Hearts deal.

However, the player’s priority is trying to make it work at Tynecastle.

"He has another year there and Olly's intention is to report back when Hearts go back," Evans said. "Hopefully there is more football to be played this season but, if not, he will go back and try to convince the people at Hearts he is worthy of playing next season.”