Former Dire Straits bassist John Illsley says that a reunion is unlikely.

"We've talked about it but I think we've come to the conclusion to leave it the way it is," Illsley told Classic Rock Magazine.

"It's very difficult to recreate the energy of 1991-92, that last tour we did — which was, in my mind, the best thing we did and the best band we ever had.

To go back and try recreate that and make it was good would be quite difficult."

"I know there would be an audience for it and all sorts of crazy offers come in from time to time," he admitted.

"In a sense, it's up to him, and I don't feel that he wants to go there right now.

I completely appreciate that right now and I'm very happy doing what I'm doing."

Illsley released his latest solo album Long Shadows on May 20.