Adam Hammill admits he was tempted by offers from other clubs but his affinity to Barnsley ensured he stayed.
The talismanic winger, 28, committed to The Reds on a new two-year deal earlier this week.
After helping fire the club back to the Championship, out-of-contract Hammill had attracted the interest of a number of other clubs, with one rumoured to be Lee Johnson's Bristol City.
He had considered leaving seriously and revealed that he had pencilled in medicals at other clubs before opting to stay at Oakwell.
Hammill told the Chronicle: "The decision was difficult and there were quite a few offers on the table.
"I was close to leaving but I have followed my heart.
"I thought I had to be loyal. I have got an affinity with the fans and we shared such special moments last season.
"I thought it would be the wrong time to leave. It is a club that I will always be fond of.
"The club helped me out as much as I helped them. It has been a perfect fit.
"Me and the missus sat down and decided what was best for the future and some times you rule with your heart and this was one of those moments.
"It is a fantastic working environment at Barnsley and I have always played my best football in red."
Hammill has now passed 100 appearances for the club in three spells and actually feels he can better last season's performances now that there is more security regarding his future.
He added: "It was a special season last season and with the momentum we are carrying in there is no reason why we can't go into the Championship and establish ourselves.
"I can see myself kicking on again and performing just as well next season.
"We will relish the challenge of each and every game.
"It is going to be a really good season for me because I won't be travelling in from Liverpool every day. "I can be the first into training and the last one out."
