AARON Nell believes that Sam Godfrey will return to Swindon Wildcats an even better player than when he was last at the Link Centre.

The 23-year-old D-man has returned to his hometown club after being released by Elite League newcomers Guildford Flames.

Godfrey, who made 51 appearances during the 2013-14 campaign at the Link Centre, began his hockey career in Swindon with the club’s U16 set-up before heading out to North America.

When Godfrey returned to the England he joined Guildford Phoenix U18 before switching to Slough Jets in 2011.

After two seasons at Slough, then Cats head coach Ryan Aldridge brought Godfrey back home and then the following year he moved to Guildford.

“Sam was great when he was with us the last time,” Nell said. “Since then he has just improved.

“He’s got another three years experience under his belt, played and trained with an Elite League side and he should come back flying.

“He is a local lad and when you have a local player of that standard become you do what you can to bring them in.

“It was an easy enough conversation with Sam, he wanted to be here and we wanted him and we are very happy that he is back in Swindon colours.”

Godfrey himself is hoping that he will be able to bring even more energy to the side as well helping the Link Centre team in the quest for trophies.

“I’m really excited to be back in Swindon, it’s been a while since I last played for the Wildcats and I’m thrilled to be back in Swindon” he said.

“I think I’ll be able to bring more energy to the line-up and I’ve gained more experience in Guildford since my last spell in Swindon.

“I’ve had some experience in the EIHL now and iced with some more experienced players.

“I’ve iced with some of the team before; Jan (Kostal), Bully (Sam Bullas), Floyd (Taylor), Lidds (Neil Liddiard) and a few others and I can’t wait to get going this weekend against a tough Peterborough team.

“The Wildcats have got a good team and I’m excited to be part of that again.

“I hope by the end of the season we can hoist some silverware.”