Ben O'Connor leaves Sheffield Steelers after failure to agree terms

The Great Britain regular says there is interest being shown in him "both at home and abroad" after parting company with the Challenge Cup winners. But he has rejected some of the online speculation about his next move.

Only eight players have played more times for the Steelers than O'Connor.

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Even the most starry-eyed supporter won't have enjoyed the way that association ended, this week.

The club was first to announce: "Terms couldn’t be agreed and we both decided to move on."

But O'Connor, while accepting that he missed a deadline to sign last March by two-days, branded the club's interpretation as "untrue."

He told The Star: "I don't want to get into a slanging match, I just want to move on, but I know the truth and it has to be told.

"I agreed to the terms but was then told they were going in a different direction.

"It would look better for me if it was the case that we couldn't agree terms, rather than the truth which was that I accepted what was offered yet they didn't want me because they felt they'd be stronger without me!

"But I wish them luck. It's been an awesome ride.

"What was accomplished in the years I was there - back to back league titles, play offs - nothing can taint that.

"Sheffield is my home team. The one I grew up watching my old man play for (Mike O'Connor) - it was a dream of mine to play for them and I ticked that box.

"Now I am looking to start my next venture. I have played for teams before at Sheffield, Edinburgh, Basingstoke, Coventry and Leksands.

"I'd have the same mentality of spoiling the party and beating them."

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There are some potential "options on the table" but O'Connor has not committed to any other EIHL club.

He has friends and golfing connections in Guildford but said: "I have had no deep conversations. Some of the rumours I have seen really surprised me.

"Not many teams are signing players when they don't know when the League will start; everything is up in the air.

"As for playing abroad, never say never..."

Asked if he would ever contemplate a move to Nottingham Panthers he replied: "I am without a job - I would play anywhere."

While he has an off-ice career as a self-employed financial advisor, he added; "There is no furlough for hockey players. I am fortunate to have my job, otherwise I'd be stacking shelves at Tesco."

The 31 year old says he should not feel sad about his Steeler exit.

"It is only a minor thing given what is going on in the world. There are bigger fish to fry.

"I appreciate everything - the majority of fans have been supportive.

"I will see the Arena fans soon hopefully - but not in an orange shirt!"