 Byrne joined Shamrock Rovers in the summer of 1987 but despite making one appearance in the European Cup in October of that year was persuaded by Brian Kerr to join his new look St Patrick's Athletic side.Kerr had signed several young players and felt he needed an experienced defender to lead the team.St Pats needed to beat Dundalk in the last game of the season to win the league but drew and had to be content with runners up medals.