Johnny Marr and Morrissey almost reformed The Smiths in 2008.
The 58-year-old musician – who was formerly a member of the rock band from their formation in 1982, to their split in 1987 – has revealed he once met up with his former band mate in a pub and discussed the possibility of a reunion.
Writing in his upcoming memoir ‘Set The Boy Free’, Johnny wrote: "Suddenly we were talking about the possibility of the band reforming, and in that moment it seemed that with the right intention it could actually be done and might even be great.
"I was genuinely pleased to be back in touch with Morrissey, and [current band] the Cribs and I talked about the possibility of me playing some shows with The Smiths. For four days it was a very real prospect.
Johnny then details how the plan went wrong when Morrissey, 57, suddenly stopped returning his calls.
He wrote: "Morrissey and I continued our dialogue and planned to meet up again. I went to Mexico with the Cribs, and then suddenly there was radio silence. Our communication ended, and things went back to how they were and how I expect they always will be."
Now, the ‘There Is a Light That Never Goes Out’ hitmaker doesn’t think he’ll ever rekindle his friendship with Morrissey – who has had a glittering solo career since the demise of The Smiths – as there’s "no need" for them to have a relationship.
Speaking in an interview with The Guardian newspaper, Johnny said: "I don’t [think I’ll rekindle my friendship with Morrissey]. I think it’s run its course. I don’t feel unfriendly in any way towards Morrissey – there’s just no need for it. One of the things we had in common was that we lived for work, and we’re too busy doing what we’re doing now."
Meanwhile, Morrissey recently said that reuniting with The Smiths with Johnny "doesn’t make sense any more".
Johnny Marr’s memoir ‘Set The Boy Free’ comes out on November 3.