Edinburgh Capitals captain Paul Zanette is to rush back from international duty with Italy in time for Sunday’s home game against Sheffield Steelers.

Zanette has rescheduled his original flight plans in order to try and return to Scotland on a flight from Riga to Glasgow on Saturday evening.

Zanette said: “Obviously this is a great opportunity to play for the Italian National Team and enjoy the experience, but the Caps are my club and short players as it is, I felt like I have to get back to give the boys an extra body for a big game against Sheffield on Sunday. 

“It’s going to be a long week, lots of hockey, I’m going to be tired, I realize that, but I will give everything I have to help get the two points and keep this home winning streak alive.  

“This is a special team we have and I feel there is a lot of success to be had in our dressing room. Whatever it takes to win, I am willing to sacrifice a little sleep to help bring that success to life.”

Italy take on Belarus, Japan and hosts Latvia over three days.

Scott Neil added: “Paul is going out of his way to try to be with the team and it speaks volumes that he is willing to play four games in four days.  

“It is a fantastic gesture and we all appreciate Paul’s effort and commitment to the team.  Considering the logistics involved, it is still a bit of a long shot for Paul to make the flight but he is making every effort to try and return before the game on Sunday.  

“It is a game that would set a new club record for consecutive wins at home and hopefully Paul will be there to lead the team to victory.”