SHANNON Long has returned to Oxford City Stars after the squad was hit by injuries.

The netminder, who iced for the side last season, was needed after Tom Annetts suffered a problem which made him a doubt for this weekend’s games.

Head coach Simon Anderson said: “I’m pleased to have Shannon back on board. He gives me more options and having four keepers in the roster will keep everyone on their toes and provide cover.”

Long said: “I couldn’t be more excited to be back with the lads on and off the ice.

“It’s a great club going in a great direction.

“When the coach-of-the-year from last season calls you and asks for you to come back to help you’d be stupid to turn it down.”

Annetts is not the only player who has been in the Oxpens treatment room.

And while the netminder’s issue is not thought to be serious, Andy Cox and Joe Oliver are not so fortunate.

The pair will be sidelined for two and four months respectively with upper body injuries.

Anderson said: “They are big blows obviously. We’re looking at our options in the squad – we have two defensive imports we could use or shuffle the pack. I’m also in talks with the directors over injury cover and the potential of bringing in some new faces.”