Peter Russell, calling the shots at Braehead Clan. Picture by Dean Woolley

Playcaller Peter Russell told success-hungry Braehead Clan fans: “I’m happy with my recruitment plans.”

Clan’s new head coach is now in Denmark at the IIHF World Championships.

But he has briefed Gareth Chalmers, Clan’s hockey and operations director, about his vision for next season.

Russell said: “Obviously, being based in the UK it’s an advantage being able to get up to Scotland and talk face-to-face rather than via telephone calls and email.

“I’ve provided updates on how recruitment is progressing and my plans for training camp.

“I am really happy with the roster I am putting together and it’s one I am sure the Purple Army will get very excited about once it hits the ice in August.”

Russell has confirmed return of the British trio Craig Peacock, Matt Haywood and Zach Sullivan for next season.

Peacock, 29, joined the Clan in 2016 from Belfast Giants, with the Great Britain international heading into his third season at Braehead Arena.

Haywood, 27, was a member of Clan’s inaugural roster in 2010/11 and has gone on to play over 400 games in front of the Purple Army.

And 23-year-old Sullivan joined the Clan three years ago from Basingstoke Bison.

Russell said: “All three bring something very different but will continue to play big parts in their own roles within the team, on and off the ice.

“These three Great Britain internationals are important to our structure, vision and future of the Clan.”

Clan have confirmed that Scottish-born forward Bari McKenzie has been released after three seasons.

The 31-year-old ex-Edinburgh Capitals forward joined from Dundee Stars and has played nearly 200 games for the club.

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