Nottingham Panthers have announced their latest signing for the upcoming season in Britain's Elite Ice Hockey League in the shape of Slovakian international Roman Tvrdon.

Roman played nine games for NHL side Washington Capitals last season.

Described as gritty and very fast, the six feet tall centre has been used as a defensive forward but has also impressed when asked to contribute to the offensive nature of his previous clubs. He is also an accomplished winger.

GMB Panthers GM Gary Moran said : "We already had some of the most exciting players in the league lined up for next season with John Craighead, Kimmy Ahlroos and Curtis Cruickshank in the line-up alongside the best Brit Pack, now we have added the icing and some cherries to the cake.

"Roman is still young and wants to impress. The fans are in for a treat. The GMB Panthers provide entertainment with a capital 'E' and he fits the bill and some. With a christian name like Roman we expect him to light up the league like a firework and with a surname that starts 'TVR' he comes with classic sports car speed. It is mouth watering and a very exciting signing for the management, the players and the fans. Our fans deserve the best and that's what we're aiming to deliver."

Panthers' coach Paul Adey, speaking from his home in Canada added : "This is a key signing. I like everything I hear about Roman Tvrdon. He's still hungry for success and our club's reputation played a major part in clinching the deal.

"Adding this guy increases our options and our output and the start of the season can't come quick enough. Very few players come to play in Britain just a year after appearing in the show. I think the numbers reach about eight in total but the majority of them come in the twilight of their careers and rely on their experience to contribute. Roman has the experience and he is still young. He has played for Slovakia's junior national teams and he has a couple of years in the tough AHL under his belt too. One report we had on him suggested that by NHL standards, this guy is very fast, and that will do for me.

"Sometimes the Press use the words 'signing coup' a little bit too liberally, make no mistake this is a coup! Our line-up is shaping up extremely well and we can't wait to show the fans what we can do out on the ice."