Payette in to protect young Steeldogs

The 34-year-old played for Roses rivals Manchester Phoenix last year, previously spending four years in the Elite League, three of which were with Newcastle Vipers after his debut UK season saw him help Coventry Blaze to a regular season championship.

Payette has built a reputation for himself as an 'enforcer' since his arrival in the UK, stacking up 369 minutes in penalties during his one season with the Blaze alone in 2004-05.

But he has during his time also proved to be a welcome points contributor and Steeldogs' head coach Matt Darlow - while no doubt utilising Payette's physical threat to the full - will be keen to see his experienced arrival chip in on the scoresheet as well.

He follows Latvian defenceman Kriss Grundmanis into Ice Sheffield, after Darlow moved quickly to bring the 21-year-old in after he had been released by Hull Stingrays.

"I would like to thank Andre for the professional way in which he dealt with our talks and the way in which he was open and honest about what he can bring to this team," said Darlow.

"It was easy to try and make this happen with Andre as his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead was more infectious than even my own and he is such a well-respected, experienced and quality guy on and off the ice.

"I am ecstatic to get the chance to work with a player of Andre's capabilities and I know the whole team is pumped at this signing."

Payette was involved in a serious accident during the summer but has managed to get himself back into condition, ready for a fifth season in the UK.

As well as top-flight experience in the UK, the Canadian winger boasts more than 150 games in the AHL after being a round 10 pick for the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1994 NHL draft.