Oxford City Stars have signed former English Premier Lea-gue defenceman Tom Avery in a bid to shore up their leaky defence.

The 24-year-old, who iced for Slough Jets in the Premier League last season, brings some much-needed experience to the Stars’ back line.

Oxford have conceded 97 goals as they have hit rock bottom in English National League South Division 1, and they will be looking to Avery to plug their leaky defence.

He comes straight into the team against Milton Keynes Thunder at Oxford Ice Rink tonight (7.30pm).

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Playing with Chelmsford in National League 1, he was part of the team that won the play-offs in the 2011-12 season.

Avery also had a prolific junior career, winning the Under 18 Southern League with Bracknell, and striking gold in roller hockey at the 2008 FIRS in-line U18 World Championships.

Coach Darren Elliott said: “I’ve been speaking to Tom for a few weeks now as he has always been in my head as a player I wanted to bring in this season, knowing I was trying to build an NIHL1 squad.

“Tom is a very well-known British defenceman who carries great defensive qualities and ability, and will play a very big part for the remainder of this season.”

Avery commented: “I’m really happy to be signing at Oxford.

“I already know quite a few of the guys, having played with and against some of them in the past and I know I will fit in well.

“It’s great to be back on the ice again and I’m really looking forward to pulling on a Stars jersey for the first time this evening.”

Mike Whillock, Mason Wild and Ryan Bainborough remain sidelined through injury.

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