Simon heads home to work out his next move

DEPARTING Sheffield Steelers player-coach Ben Simon says he is keeping his options open with regard to where he might ply his trade next season.

The 32-year-old American stunned the Elite League champions by announcing his intention to leave the club, despite being offered a generous package to remain.

Simon felt that the intended policing of a £6,500-per-week wage cap by league bosses plus the self-imposed financial constraints introduced by club owners would prevent him from putting together a competitive roster for the 2011-12 campaign.

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Current players Ashley Tait and Kevin Bolibruck are believed to be in the frame to replace Simon, along with former favourites Ryan Finnerty, now captain at Cardiff Devils, and Rob Wilson, the former Newcastle Vipers coach currently working in Italy.

Simon, who hopes to return home to Indiana in the next few days, said: “I guess that I walked away from a good deal to nothing so it’s back to the drawing board.

“I’m not sure whether I want to go back to just playing, carry on doing the same as this season or maybe take on a coaching-only role. I’m comfortable with my decision – it wasn’t easy – even though I am walking away from a very good offer to nothing. It’s better for the organisation in the long run.”

Simon arrived in Sheffield last August after being appointed by former owner Bob Phillips and, after convincing his already-signed players to stay in place, led the club to their third league championship in eight years.

The Steelers were denied a chance of a third double after losing 4-3 in overtime to Nottingham Panthers in last weekend’s play-off semi-final at the National Ice Centre.