MATIAS Perkkio will not return to Swindon Wildcats for 2013/14 after neither party expressed an interest in continuing the relationship.

The forward, who put up 66 points in 41 appearances for the Wildcats last term, is keen on playing a higher standard of hockey.

For his part, Swindon head coach Ryan Aldridge feels that the 26-year-old Finn was not consistent enough to deserve a place on the roster next season.

“I sat down with Matias and we talked about what his plans were for next year and he wants to play at a higher level,” said Aldridge.

“It was probably a mutual agreement that he wasn’t to return. I think I would want a little bit more out of my imports than what he brought to the table.

“He was great some nights and invisible other nights.

“That’s the reason why he came to our level I’m sure. If he could play the way he is when he’s great every night, he’d be an incredible talent.

“His skill level and vision is phenomenal but it’s his foot speed and because he struggles with that in our league, I’m sure he’ll struggle with it in every league he plays in.

“But he had some big games for us and he was a great guy and we wish him the best.”

The 2012/13 season was Perkkio’s first outside his homeland and it proved a tough year to handle.

His father Markku, himself a former ice hockey player, died in January and Perkkio jnr returned home to be with his family following the tragedy.

The performances of the former Kiekko-Vantaa man varied throughout the year but his personality endeared him to his fellow players and supporters.

Aldridge feels that it was a measure of Perkkio’s character that he elected to carry on playing in England after his father’s death.

“He was very quiet when he came in but he did his job and was professional,” said Aldridge.

“He had a lot of troubles throughout the year and to be fair to him he came back after his father’s passing which I think was a big credit to him.

“I’m sure he did it for his father.”

Meanwhile, Swindon's National League side, who play in South Division Two, are to hold their first open trial of the off-season.

The trial will take place at 5pm-6.30pm on Sunday.

For more information email Lewis Nell at lewis.nell@swindonwildcats.com.