Sheffield Steelers back in action on Saturday

And while their coach Aaron Fox recognises they might not be operating at full-pelt following the tragic death of Nottingham Panthers' player Adam Johnson at Sheffield Arena, he feels the fans will stick by their team as some form of normality re-starts.

Fox said: "I want to send our heartfelt condolences to the Johnson family, friends, and also everyone at the Panthers' organisation during this difficult time. You have all been in our thoughts this past week.

"To everyone who shared last weekend's tragic events with us, whether it was in person or on the stream, I know how hard this week must have been for you all, and want you to know that you are in our thoughts and have the full support from inside our dressing room.

"We know there will be plenty of ups and downs during these next days, weeks, and months but know that we are all in this together regardless of what colour team you support."

The coach went on: "I’m extremely proud of how connected our group is at the moment. There’s tons of love, support, and plenty of tears that are being shared throughout our team and staff.

"We know that’s going to be something that isn’t going to go away and we will likely have for a long time moving forward.

"It’s been very difficult and emotional getting back onto the ice for the guys but I feel like it’s been an important step and our players have shown some real strength and courage during the last few days being back inside the Arena.

"Most of the guys have had multiple skates now which has been very positive but also know that each player and staff member is going through things on different timelines and that’s absolutely normal and OK."

Each player had "our full organisational support" he said.

"I know when we start back up next week there will be some difficult moments that we will need to overcome as a group and that won’t be easy.

"We appreciate all the support we have received and it’s helping and doesn’t go unnoticed so thank you to all of you.

"I also know we won’t have 20 guys 100% ready by Saturday and it will take us some time to get everyone as close to that number as possible.

"I also know that there is tons of character and leadership in that room right now and a real tight and close group in that dressing room. "We have guys ready to support each other through this on and off the ice which for me has been very uplifting to see and gives me some real encouragement".