GM Telford Tigers go into a tough weekend against their closest rivals in the league table without the new player they expected to join the squad this week.

The recruiting of German Matthias Oertel was announced at the 11th hour last Saturday, just ahead of the signing deadline.

But now the 21-year-old winger has told club officials he had changed his mind and is no longer coming to play in the UK.

Player-coach Claude Dumas said: “Matthias sent an e-mail during the week explaining that he is not coming to England right now, for personal reasons.

“Naturally we are very disappointed because we were looking forward to having him on the team, and it is frustrating as it is now too late to find another player.

“This decision means we have to finish the season with just two imports – myself and Marek Hornak.

“However, we have a good squad of players at Telford and I have confidence that the guys will continue to show their character in the remaining games.”

Tigers are at home tomorrow against Romford Raiders  (5.30pm) who are snapping at their heels but five points adrift in the EPL table.

Sunday sees Tigers on the road to Swindon, looking to leapfrog the Wildcats – currently just one point ahead in the league.

“This weekend’s points are vitally important for us because the league is so tight this season,” said Dumas.

“Romford are quite confident but I still think we are playing good hockey and I want to see us picking up points to keep our season rolling.

“We will approach them seriously because we know how they can play, but we also know what we are capable of. 

“They have improved – but they are still not the best team in the league.

“We have to play with no fear. And we are confident we can match both teams this weekend.”

By CAROLINE GARBETT