It’s a match made in heaven, says Clan coach
Gary Russell signs back up for fourth season with team
course of an impressive career.
And the Clan head coach admitted he was keen to get the stopper signed up for another season.
He said: “I am delighted Gary Russell has agreed to extend his stay with us.
“Personally, I have known Gary for a very long time, so I am looking forward to working with him.
“Gary is one of the premier backups in the EIHL, and he is more than capable of playing at this level. He is in the top four to five British netminders in the country and we are lucky to have him.
“I look forward to having Gary in my line-up and know he is going to make a great partnership with the other guy we will bring in.
“Gary is a Glasgow boy and loves this club. It’s a match made in heaven.”
Russell has played second fiddle to the likes of Ryan Nie in recent seasons, though has also gained some valuable ice time as well.
He also enjoyed the rare occasion of teaming up with his brother John last season, with the Paisley Pirates keeper called-up to join Gary in the squad.
Paisley Pirates showed some early Christmas spirit to help out Clan when they found themselves short of a keeper for an important Elite League match.
When the Clan discovered they were a keeper down for their clash away to MK Lightning, an SOS to the Pirates saw a unique double act in the purple.
Pirates were more than happy to allow John Russell the opportunity to make the move to Clan for the clash.
It is a rare occurrence for brothers to play alongside each other – it is even rarer considering the duo are both keepers.
Gary would go on to produce a sterling display in goals as the Clan recorded a shut-out 1-0 victory.
Russell becomes the 10th player to join the Clan for 2018/19, following the signings of Zack Fitzgerald, Scott Pitt, Matt Stanisz, Michal Gutwald, Gerard Hanson, Jack Musil, Craig Peacock, Matt Haywood, and Zach Sullivan.
Gary is one of the premier back-ups in the EIHL, and he is more than capable of playing at this level Pete Russell