NEW Swindon Wildcats signing Corey McEwen has put his move to the Link Centre down to a ‘good connection’ with head coach Stevie Lyle.

The Cats were one of many British outfits that 22-year-old McEwen spoke to ahead of his return from Canada but after discussions with fellow Welshman Lyle, he was convinced that Swindon was the right move.

“Stevie was one of the coaches who got back to me and we’ve had lots of conversations over the last couple of months,” McEwen, who will be given the number seven jersey, told the Wildcats’ website.

“He also spoke to my dad and I felt like I had a good connection with him. “I believe he's going to help me through any ups and downs I may have and he can help to turn me into a far better player off and on the ice.

“I generally felt like Stevie cared about where I played and wanted the best for me, so it seemed the right choice to make.”

Having spent the last eight years playing in the youth leagues of Canada, the Cardiff-born forward has admitted that he has not kept a close eye on the game back home.

However, McEwen understands that coming from one of the biggest nations to play the game, the weight of expectation from Wildcats fans will be high but he is looking to make himself a household name in British hockey.

“I'm not too sure what to expect from the standard of hockey over here, but I’ve done lots of research and it certainly appears to be very good and the hockey history I have in England is crazy so I feel like I need to come and make a name for myself,” he added.

“Not being classed as an import will also help all parties, so I really can’t wait to get my career in England underway.

“I’m in the best shape of my life and it has given me the best opportunity to do well and I have no doubt that I will be ready to go when I skate with the Wildcats.

“I can't wait to start my career in England.

“I think people will have high expectations of me, but I think my own are higher.”