It’s a fourth season in orange for popular Finnish forward Mikko Juusola after the Sheffield Steelers confirmed he has signed a new contract ahead of the 2026–27 Elite League campaign.

Since arriving in Sheffield prior to the club’s historic Grand Slam-winning season of 2023–24, Juusola has become one of the most exciting and consistent forwards in the Elite League. A huge favourite with the Steelers supporters at the Utilita Arena, Mikko has played 208 games for the club, scoring an impressive 75 goals and 180 points across Elite League, Challenge Cup, Play Off and Champions Hockey League competition.

Head Coach Aaron Fox made it clear that bringing Juusola back for another season was a major priority.

“Getting Mikko back was a priority for our group,” said Fox.

“He’s a guy we count on in all situations and someone who can play a top-six role on either wing.

“Mikko was huge for us on the penalty kill last season and can also play multiple spots on the power play.

“He dealt with some injuries early last year, but once he got healthy I thought he had a great second half of the season and became one of our most consistent players again.

“We know he can completely change the dynamic of a game with his skating ability, and we’ve seen him put up big numbers here over the last three years.

“I still think he’s at a great age and I expect him to have a big bounce-back season and be a guy capable of scoring 25 to 30 goals again.

“As always, I’m really looking forward to having him back in orange.”

Before moving to Sheffield, Juusola had spent almost his entire professional career in his native Finland, apart from a brief spell with Czech side HC Energie Karlovy Vary in 2023. He arrived in Sheffield with 178 games of experience in Liiga and Mestis competition between 2018 and 2022.

Mikko made an immediate impact in his first season with the Steelers, recording 24 goals and 50 points in just 58 games during the club’s Grand Slam campaign.

He also impressed on the European stage in the Champions Hockey League, scoring 3 goals and adding 5 points in 8 games against some of the top clubs in Europe.

Speaking from his home in Finland, Juusola admitted returning to Sheffield was an easy decision.

“It was an easy decision to come back for a fourth season. Sheffield is my second home and the Steelers are my second family.

“I love playing in Sheffield, at the Arena and in front of the incredible Steelers fans who have always made me feel so wanted and appreciated.

“I think we owe the fans more silverware after the last two seasons without trophies, and I know myself and my teammates will do everything we can to bring more success back to Sheffield.”