Canadian forward Ryan Finnerty has agreed to return for a third season with Elite League play-off champions Sheffield Steelers.

The 27-year-old posted 20 goals, 39 assists and 249 penalty minutes in 68 games last season, helping Steelers finish second in the league and end a four-year wait for play-off success.

Coach Dave Matsos said: "Finner came to play last year and he was one of the main reasons we lifted the cup. He brings energy to our line-up and dressing room, he plays with an edge and an intensity that I love having on the team.

"We all got to see that Finner is a winner, a bad loser. He plays with his heart and I think that's why the fans took to him in Sheffield.

"As a coach I know I can play Ryan in various positions. He can score on a big line or he can check and just shut down other teams on a different kind of line. Every team needs a Ryan Finnerty, we just happen to have the genuine one."

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