Signing defender is proving tricky
Braehead Clan chief Gareth Chalmers has revealed the side are struggling to clinch the signing of a top quality defenceman.
Clan still have one import slot to fill on their roster, despite the season being well under way, with staff working tirelessly to strengthen the squad.
Chalmers admits it has proven more difficult than anticipated to bring another body on board as a number of targets are opting to wait on offers from further afield.
The hockey and operations director explained:“I appreciate everyone is anxious to find out what is happening with the last import spot.
“I can assure everyone that we’re working 24/7 to get a deal across the line for the right defenceman.
“We know we need a quality defenceman, but there isn’t a lot of quality available right now.
“As an example, there are currently four EIHL clubs in the same boat as us — looking for quality defencemen.
“We have been pursuing a lot of options for weeks now, but the top quality players we need are waiting for jobs in Germany, Finland, Sweden, etc.
“We’re hoping there will be some movement very soon.”
Chalmers has watched on as the side have struggled to get to grips with the new season.
He concedes the results haven’t exactly been what management would have wanted, but insists things will get better.
He added:“It has certainly been another tough and frustrating start to the season.
“Very much like last season, we have found any sort of consistency difficult to come by early on.
“One week we’re on the road to Nottingham and Edinburgh and come away with two good wins.
“A week later, we go on the long journey to Cardiff and Guildford and come away with two losses.
“While we’re not happy with where we are right now, we’re in October, with a long way to go in the season with an ownership, management team, staff, coach and players fully committed to bringing success to this organisation.” Braehead Clan defenceman Christoffer Bjorklund will cast friendships aside this evening as he welcomes former teammates to Braehead Arena.
Clan kick start a threegame weekend tonight when Sheffield Steelers come to town for the first time this season in the Challenge Cup group stages.
The 29-year-old Swedish defender has been a great addition to John Tripp’s side this season, having penned a deal following a stint with the Steelers.
He enjoyed a successful short spell in Sheffield — but Bjorklund insists that he is ready to put that to the back of his mind in a bid to help Clan kick-start a winning run of form that has, so far, escaped them this season.
Another defeat to Fife Flyers last Sunday continued their inconsistent start to life under new head coach Tripp.
But Bjorkland reckons it is time to use that pain of loss as a catalyst to turn defeats into victories.
He said:“I enjoyed my time in Sheffield and playing there.
“Myself and my family made a lot of friends during our short time there.
“However, now I am with Braehead and proud to be playing for the Clan.
“We need to get back to winning ways straight away and it would be big confidence boost if we could do that against the Steelers.
“They are one of the top organisations in the country and their success on the ice reflects that.
“They have quality throughout their team, so it won’t be easy.”
Tickets are available for the clash via Ticketmaster, by calling 0844 499 1700 or at the Braehead Arena box office.