Sheffield Steeler Ben O'Connor's big move falls through ... then he gets another one

Swedish giants Leksands have snapped up Steeler Ben O'Connor.
Former Steeler Ben O'ConnorFormer Steeler Ben O'Connor
Former Steeler Ben O'Connor

The Sheffield defenceman was supposed to be signing for a Kazakh team, but they pulled out of the deal.

However Leksands - who ironically play Sheffield in pre-season friendlies on August - have moved in for the 29 year old.

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Coach Paul Thompson: "Ben has decided to look at all his options and right now sees his immediate future outside the UK. We understand and respect his decision. I see what he is trying to achieve and understand his reasons for moving on, everyone here wishes him well.

"Whilst there was a little hope he would return following the KHL move falling through we had already made provisions for his departure and those continue.

"Benny is an extremely talented player on the ice and a big leader inside our dressing room. Everyone at the club is disappointed he will be leaving but we are also excited for him and the great challenge ahead.

"We have lost some players that we didn't envisage losing which has made the already big turnaround in personnel even larger. That’s professional sport and we have to react to that. We are excited with the new signings we have already announced and the several we have signed that are yet to be confirmed to the fan base.

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"We are making excellent progress and I can confirm that we will be announcing another new member of our team first thing on Thursday morning"O'Connor said "I just want to thank the club and the fans again for their support. Everyone was really kind to me when the KHL move happened and then really kind again when things fell through.

"This is another big opportunity for me and I'm excited to be joining Leksands, how crazy is it that the Steelers first two games will be against me and my new team on the 11th and 12th August. I'm sure my Steelers story isn't over and I will wear that shirt again one day, for now thank you to everyone for the good wishes"