Ice Hockey: Loss of Fussey to Blaze burns Capitals badly

Fussey, 27, joins the Midlands club after an outstanding debut season when he netted 35 goals in 46 games and guided Capitals to a franchise record 52 points and sixth place in the table, their best finishing position.

And Fussey was named the Newcomer of the Season at the 2010 Elite League awards.

The former Washington Capitals forward has iced in over 200 games in the American Hockey League for Portland Pirates, Hershey Bears and Toronto Marlies, winning the Calder Cup with the Bears in the 2005-6 season.

Although he was born in Winnipeg in Canada, both his parents are British and Fussey holds a British passport and his capture is a huge coup for Coventry coach Paul Thompson.

Several clubs – both in the UK and in Europe – were chasing his signature and Fussey said: "I'm very excited to be joining the Blaze. The professionalism of the team and the club is known around the league and that's a big thing for any player. I was also really attracted by the opportunity to play for Paul Thompson. He has a great reputation and over the years has continuously put together top-notch teams."

Coach Thompson said: "Owen is a really big signing. He has the ability to both create opportunities and score goals himself and he's a very complete player."