Haines comes home to Fife Flyers

The defenceman’s return was finally confirmed by the club today.

Haines, a former club captain, left in summer to play in France, but iced in just seven games with Chamonix-Morzine.

His return to the Kingdom will be warmly welcomed by fans and players alike.

Haines will ice in this weekend’s double header against Braehead Clan, with his appearance on home ice on Sunday co-inciding with celebrations to mark Brendan Brooks’ 1000th career game.

Haines said: “It feels strange being back, but in some ways it feels like I’ve never been away.

‘‘I’m looking forward to settling back in and getting back on the ice.”

His return was an open secret – the player was in the stands to watch Saturday’s 7-0 demolition of Manchester Storm, and happily posed for pictures with supporters who spotted him sitting in the Fife Lounge.

Contractual issues still had to be resolved, and that held up any formal announcement of his return until today.

Todd Dutiaume, head coach, was delighted to bring back a player he holds in the highest regard.

He said: ‘‘ We are delighted to have Hainsey back. He was a valuable member of the team over the last couple of seasons, and we are glad to see him back with us for the remainder of this season.

‘‘He joins us at an important time and will definitely help us at the back end.”