Livingston release defender 'struggling with homesickness'

Defender Luiyi de Lucas has left Livingston by mutual consent with the club saying the Dominican Republic international was suffering from homesickness.

The 29-year-old was a January transfer signing last year having impressed during the Lions’ winter training camp following a spell in Finland with Haka.

The centre-back was a key fixture in the back three at the start of the season but a string of errors saw him dropped and featured just twice since the start of November.

Manager David Martindale said: “Luiyi came and spoke to me a few weeks back and stressed that he was struggling with homesickness and was missing being with his family.

“We agreed that Luiyi would continue until the winter break as to not leave us short in the last few weeks before agreeing to terminate his contract to allow him to return closer to home and family.

“I wish Luiyi well wherever his next move is and thank him for his time at the club.”

He becomes the second Livi player to depart the club during the transfer window with versatile Danny Lloyd not being offered an extension to his short-term deal. The 32-year-old signed in August to provide cover due to injuries and featured just five times for the club.

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