The British ace has been stunned by suggestions that a secret conspiracy by home-grown players influenced Matsos to ditch Tessier.

'Tess' has suggested the coach was too close to the British skaters.

But the Sheffield defenceman said: "I'm surprised that Tess thinks the Brits had too much power and ran the (locker) room because I honestly don't think that is the case at all. I would be amazed if any of the other guys had that feeling.

"I thought our room was terrific last year.

"All the players, whether Canadian or British, got on really well. We even let a Welsh lad (Jonathan Phillips) captain us for heaven's sake!

"Tess was a great player and I am sure he will be hard to replace on the ice. I am sure it was a hard call for Matty to make.

"Over the last year or two, having a good team spirit and having a group of guys who will commit to one another has been the way Matty has wanted to go.

"It's a shame Tess didn't fit in and has had to leave.

"I'm sure who ever comes in will know he has big skates to fill but we all trust the coach to bring in the right guys to help us win."
Meanwhile, Joey Talbot, has also commented on Tessier's removal.
The Canadian, who played junior hockey with Tessier, said he was looking forward to coming back next season although he would miss another departing player, Ian Manzano.

"Tess not coming back doesn't effect my life at all. He is a good player but we have a lot of good players and I guess he wasn't the right fit for us," he said,

"I talk to Tess and he was a little disappointed but he will move on, I'm sure."

Talbot admits he will miss defenceman Manzano.

"We got along really well last year," he said.

TOMORROW: Another Steeler has his say on the issue.

What do you think? Post your comments below.

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