Niklas is back ! This is the one we know you have been waiting for and so finally the Direct Taxis Solihull Barons can confirm the return of star Swedish forward Niklas Ottosson.

Undoubtedly a fan favourite with hockey skill to spare, Niklas has thrilled Barons fans since 2014 with his freakish ability round the opposition net, lightning breakouts from D and strong team play. While Niklas was clearly a key returnee for the fans, his return has also delighted coach Callum Bowley :

“Having Nik back on board is fantastic news for us. Everyone knows what Nik brings to the table, he’s a highly skilled forward, team first guy and great leader. Often when we think about forwards, we think about goals, assists and offence, but with Nik you get more than that. He’s doesn’t just take pride in delivering offence, he also takes great pride in the defensive zone which is what you want to see from your forwards. Whenever he’s on the puck, you know that you are going to get scoring chances as he can find passing lanes and be a handful for opposing d-men. He’s very good on the power play, penalty kill and in 5 on 5 situations, and can produce game changing moments which can be the difference between winning and losing. We are delighted Nik is back on board and I look forward to working with him.

Niklas has been very settled in the Barons set-up over the last few years and despite envious glances from around the leagues, Hobs Moat was the only place for the dynamic import :

“I am very happy and excited to have signed for another year with the Barons.

“After last year with COVID-19 wiping out a whole season, I think a lot of the players are hungry to play and miss the game just as much as I do. Callum and Marcus had a very interesting team put together for last season and I know they’re trying to do the same this year. We should definitely be up there fighting for silverware for sure and hopefully you can all be there to support us and enjoy the game when we start back up.

“In the meantime, have a good summer and I hope to see you all very soon!

With the signing of Niklas, the already strong Barons have only added to their competitiveness and will be a side to beat come September. Keep following our releases as Callum Bowley fills the remaining slots on the 21-22 Direct Taxis Solihull Barons roster.