OXFORD City Stars believe they have sent out a strong message to the rest of the National Division 1 after securing the signature of Romanian international Zsolt Mastaleriu.

The defenceman not only plays for his country, he has also gained a wealth of experience in the MOL Liga – an international league pitting the best clubs from Romania, Slovakia and Hungary against each other.

Mastaleriu will line up alongside Canadian giant Kyle Flemington as the Stars’ two imported players for the season, in what should prove to be a formidable defence.

It’s the start of a new era for the 25-year-old, who will be moving to the UK for the first time.

He is looking forward to getting on the ice.

“I’ve been here in Oxford for the past few days getting settled in and everyone has been fantastic so far,” he said.

“Oxford looks like a fantastic city.

“Some of the guys have been showing me around and I’m really looking forward to getting started for the Stars.”

Head coach Darren Elliott is excited about his latest signing.

“We looked at a quite a few import players, but we were looking for defensive players and Zsolt fit the bill,” the Stars chief said.

“He was really keen to come over from Romania – he speaks very good English and played for his country in the recent World Championships.

“He’s a big strong player and brings an added solidity to our team.

“With his experience as well, he’s really the full package.”

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