RYAN FINNERTY admits he is delighted to finally bring Cody Carlson to Braehead Clan after years of trailing the defenceman.

The 25-year-old will come to Scotland after a season in the ECHL with Cincinnati Cyclones, but his experience has taken him to France and Germany in the past.

Carlson made 77 appearances in Cincinnati last season, scoring five and assisting in 11, following from campaigns for EC Peiting in Germany and for French side, Strasbourg.

But he comes to the UK highly rated and his arrival is being seen as another big signing by the Clan as they continue to strengthen next season.

“Cody’s a player I know from back home and he’s a kid I like and want to work with,” said the head coach. “He has a lot of upside to his game and can play in any position.

“He’s a someone I’ve been looking to add for a few years and every coach we’ve spoken with has raved about him.

“He was part of a really good Cincinnati team last year and we’re expecting him to fill a utility role. Cody’s the guy you need someone to step into a powerplay situation and he’s been there before.

“People may look at his resumé and see the numbers, but knowing him, he can play and be a good player for our team.

“I think the Elite League will be a great place for him to come and play and I believe he can be a very. very good player. Plus I know him personally and I’m excited to get him.”

Meanwhile, returnee Scott Aarssen has expressed his excitement at working once more with Finnerty during his fourth season in Glasgow.

The Canadian confirmed he would be coming back to Scotland next term and said yesterday: “Finner isn’t a normal coach, but he’s a great coach and I’ve enjoyed the past three seasons under him

“He wants to win games, titles and trophies and treats players professionally, which deserves respect and it’s a two-way street with him.

“If you respect him, he’ll respect you and I enjoy the systems he uses. Finner is also good at adapting on the fly and will change the style when he needs to, which is always good."