Simon seeks commitment from Steelers' players

The 32-year-old former NHL forward – who played 81 games in the world's biggest league, mainly for the Atlanta Thrashers – was unveiled by the South Yorkshire club on Wednesday morning.

The appointment comes after Steelers' owner Bob Phillips took the club off the market after receiving no suitable bids from prospective buyers.

His decision to put the club up for sale followed a management walkout earlier this month, which included GM Mike O'Connor, publicity officer David Simms and head coach Dave Matsos, who has since found a job in North America.

Phillips is adamant Steelers can maintain another season of top-flight hockey with his rookie coach's chief aim being to improve on last year's poor fifth-place finish.

"I'm in the middle of contacting all the players," said Simon.

"I want to make sure they wish to be here fighting for the Steelers next season. If not, it's unlikely they'll be here at the start of the season."

Phillips confirmed former Steelers' defenceman Neil Abel will be installed as bench coach to assist first-time coach Simon, who will have the final say on any other coaching appointments he feels are necessary.

Ashley Tait was appointed as Matsos's assistant coach as part of the deal which brought him back to Sheffield Arena following a season in Italy.

On the failed talks over potential new owners, Phillips claimed that no bid was ever forthcoming.

"I intend being the owner of Sheffield Steelers at the start of the season," said Phillips.

"Nobody made us a reasonable offer. The one offer I had was to just walk away and that wasn't happening.

"We're really pleased to have Ben on board. He come highly recommended and we're just extremely pleased that he's chosen to make his first move into coaching with us."