Steelers have confirmed the signing of 25 year old winger Mikko Juusola from HC Energie Karlovy Vary in Czechia
Previously juusola had only played in his home country, Finland, playing 75 times in Liiga and 109 appearances in Mestis as well as representing his County at the U20 level.
Announcing the deal head coach Aaron Fox said “Mikko is a skilled dynamic winger who skates very well and will play a very creative game.
“He’s coming off a down year offensively in CZE/Liiga which is the only reason he became available to us.
“Mikko had 11 goals and played a top 6 role in Liiga in the 21-22 season at only 24 years of age so we are getting a guy who’s proved he can score goals in one of Europe’s best leagues.
“He’s coming in hungry and excited to get started. I think he will be a very reliable player defensively and is a great team player.
“Mikko is one of the guys I’m most excited about seeing how his game translates at our level as I think he will make a big impact in our group”.
Speaking from his home in Finland Juusola commented “ I’m very excited to come to England, a new country and new challenge for me. I had decided I wanted to play outside Finland once again this year and was looking for opportunities
“When Sheffield (and other UK teams) showed interest I took more notice of the game over there and liked what I found out about the standard and the players already in the league
“After speaking with Arron Fox I also spoke with Niklas (Nevalainen) who confirmed everything I needed to know to make the decision to sign an easy one”
Speaking of his conversations with Foxy Mikko continued “I liked how the coach already knew a lot about my game and how I played, I hope to be able to show him my ability and how I can help the team.
“Coaches can’t make promises about ice time and opportunities in the summer, you have to earn those when you arrive and show the coach you deserve them”
Asked about his playing style Mikko immediately returned one word “Fast”
“I’m a very fast forward and I like to use that speed to create chances for me and my team mates whether that be on the forecheck or breakout, and of course I love to score goals”
Tickets are for sale for the two home exhibition games against Nottingham Panthers (Saturday 9th September) and Cardiff Devils (Saturday 16th November) – just £10 each including booing fees – Click “HERE” to purchase
