Sheffield Steelers reveal their first import signing for EIHL Cup

Adrian Saxrud Danielsen joins the club from Austrian side HC Innsbruck.

He is the first import to be announced this year by Sheffield, who have yet to confirm which of last season's overseas crop will return.

It seems likely winger Tanner Eberle will be back though.

If there is a player who badly needs ice time during the pandemic it is the 27-year-old Canadian, who has seen little action on the ice in the last 12 months.

Eberle never let the side down and was a key performer last season, so it will be interesting to see if he teams up with Danielsen.

The Scandinavian is at the peak of his hockey career at 28, is an aggressive checker, and has played for his country.

He can fight too.

"Adrian is a big two-way defensive who skates extremely well," said head coach Aaron Fox

"He likes to play a physical game and prides himself on being a shutdown defenseman.

"He has shown some offensive upside in Norway and I expect him to play in all situations when hooking up with us in a few weeks’ time.

"Most importantly he’s a true pro with high character and is coming here with a mindset to win and showcase his game. I’m looking forward to having him here in Sheffield."

Danielsen, who played alongside ex Nottingham Panthers skipper Sam Herr at Innsbruck, has also played in Sweden, Denmark, Austria and in top league in his own country with Storhamar and Lillehammer.

In 2011-12 he had a season in Canada with Drummondville Voltigeurs in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.