Sheffield Steelers confirm deal to sign Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen

Norwegian international Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen has signed his first full-year contract with Sheffield Steelers, saying they are the "the most professional" outfit he has played for in his decade-long career.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The 28-year-old - unlucky not to be part of Norway's recent World Championship tournament - was one of coach Aaron Fox s eight imports in the condensed EIHL series in April.

His 16 games proved it was a good fit for the player - and the management backed up their initial interest with a fresh deal for 2021-22.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

As The Star reminded readers over the weekend, Saxrud-Danielsen was the top plus-minus performer in the mini-series. He is steely and efficient in his own zone and a shooting threat in the opposition's.

Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen celebrates with the bench. Photo: Dean WoolleyAdrian Saxrud-Danielsen celebrates with the bench. Photo: Dean Woolley
Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen celebrates with the bench. Photo: Dean Woolley

"I guess the audition went well for both the club and I" Saxrud-Danielsen said of his initial spell at the EIHL club.

"I really liked Sheffield, my team mates and Foxy. The Elite Series was a cool experience

"Without doubt, the club was the most professional I have ever played for. Everything was taken care of, on and off the ice leaving the players to do what they do best, play."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Influencing his decision to return for a full season was his need to win a title.

Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen:back in orange. Photo: Dean WoolleyAdrian Saxrud-Danielsen:back in orange. Photo: Dean Woolley
Adrian Saxrud-Danielsen:back in orange. Photo: Dean Woolley

"That’s a major reason I am here," he said. "Foxy and I talked a lot about this and I want my time in Sheffield to have a trophy or two to show for it"

Fox said he was delighted to see the 6ft 3ins defenceman inked into his plans.

"I’m really excited to get Saxy back in orange.

"He’s an excellent two-way D-man who can play a physical heavy game but also skates extremely well.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"He’s extremely professional, a good teammate and takes really good care of himself, he plays the game the right way and loved his time here.

"He is very much excited to get back to Sheffield for a full season" said the coach.

Saxrud-Danielsen had represented his country at both under 20 (11 appearances) and full senior team levels (10 appearances).

Steelers aim to announce further signings over the next few days.

Fans will be interested to know who the new, number one import goaltender will be, following in the footsteps of John Muse and Tomas Duba.