The Smith Recycling MK Lightning have moved to strengthen their roster by announcing the signing of Finnish forward Antti Hölli.

Antti, 29, moves to Milton Keynes after a short spell playing in Slovakia this season but has extensive experience in the European game and has represented his country at U17 level.

He has played with the Danish league and cup winners, the Finnish Mestis league winners and in three seasons won the accolade of scoring the most game winning goals in Mestis (the second highest hockey league in Finland – with the country currently ranked by the IIHF as the world’s third best team). In the 2014-15 season he was top goals and points scorer at Herlev Eagles in Denmark and in 2012-13 the top goal scorer with Leki in the Mestis league.

Head Coach Pete Russell said Antti had been on his radar previously and he was delighted to have finally secured his signature. “I tried to get Antti here a couple of times before but it didn’t work out.

“Antti is a strong skater, has good hands, a heavy shot and good strength. He plays a controlled game and is good at both ends of the rink. He’s played in some great leagues and everyone you speak to about him only has good things to say – he’ll be a great addition to the roster at this stage of the season.

“We’ve been monitoring the situation since Miko Lopuski had to have his operation; Miko is still in rehab, so when Antti became available we did everything possible to make it happen and get him here. This time it’s been successful and we’re delighted to welcome Antti to our team – and we know for sure our supporters will make him feel right at home.”

Antti Hōlli said, “I’m really grateful to Pete Russell for giving me this chance to come to Milton Keynes.  I’m really excited to see what we can do as a team and I promise I’ll give 100 per cent every single game for this club. I think there are some really exciting times ahead and I can’t wait to meet my new team mates and our supporters!”