Lee Esders is pleased to get the best of both worlds after agreeing to return as injury cover for Braehead Clan.

Despite announcing his retirement at the end of last season, Esders has agreed to ice for the club as and when required.

“I’m delighted to be back in the Clan set-up – obviously it’s a strange one, after announcing my retirement, but this way I’m getting the best of both worlds,” said Esders.

“It means I can still work full-time and be there for the Clan if they need me if and when they pick up some injuries.

“Last season was a bit of a rollercoaster for me and I was finding the ice time was becoming less and less. I knew then that would be the case and I did consider calling it a day.

“I was still thinking that way when I left the Clan and after talking to Matt Towe and Danny Meyers, they persuaded me to head to Guildford Flames.

“It allowed me to gain experience in working in the field I am now and still keep playing, so it was an opportunity to gain the qualifications I needed outside hockey.

“It’s always been in the back of my mind to get on a career path outside the sport and when the ice time wasn’t forthcoming, it was a strange time.

“I’ve still been going to the gym, doing bits and bobs and playing golf to stay fit. Obviously that’s changed from when I played ice hockey full-time.

“I’ve played under Finner (Ryan Finnerty) for a while and we’ve built up a good relationship in that time so the chance came up out of the blue.

“It allows me to still do something I love while still building a career elsewhere.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)