Former Sheffield Steeler is back in the Elite League with Dundee Stars

The Canadian power forward divided opinion between fans when he played for Sheffield.

But the only opinion that really matters is the coach’s - and Paul Thompson was quick to put a red cross through his name at the end of last season.

Marquardt has now been snapped up by Dundee Stars, who were satisfied that his 40 points in 53 games and his size and potential were exactly what they were looking for.

Stars’ general manager Omar Pacha said of the player: “Matt is a big strong power forward that has a great scoring touch.

“He is a good team player and knows what it takes to win.

“We wanted to add size and strength to our lineup while getting a player that can be an offensive leader”.

Marquardt is not just seen as a playing asset.

He will be given the position as assistant coach - showing what regard Stars have for the 31-year-old, who arrived in the UK with Coventry Blaze in 2016.

Pacha said: “As a player assistant Matt will help in various ways and will gain experience with the role.

“He is a great club ambassador and I am convinced the fans will love him.

“In the first few weeks Matt will focus more on the ice as he will be an integral part of our team.

However, as the season goes on he will have more responsibilities in the coaching aspect”.

Marquardt, who was joint top goal scorer for Steelers alongside Mathieu Roy, was Dundee’s 13th summer signing. Overall, he was the club’s eighth points-taker.

The winger will be the joint oldest player, as things stand, on what looks a very young Dundee outfit.

He is looking forward to starting his new job in Scotland, tweeting: “Thank you to the great fans & everyone @DundeeStars for the kind words and warm welcome! I’m really looking forward to meeting my new teammates getting started!”