Uncapped Essendon player Ross McQuillan will return home to Ireland after one season with the Bombers, per The Herald Sun's Marc McGowan.

The 21-year-old joined Essendon in 2019 and was contracted at Tullamarine on a two-year deal as an international Category B Rookie.

It is understood that McQuillan lost his love for the game and was homesick during his time in Australia, with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic also playing a part in his decision.

McQuillan will follow former teammate Conor McKenna in heading home to Ireland, with McKenna departing Essendon in September after 79 games in the red sash.