BRAEHEAD CLAN'S latest signing last night set his sights on a shot to glory.

Netminder Gary Russell sealed his switch to the Clan after seven years in Dumfries with NIHL side Solway Sharks.

And now the 25-year-old is determined to bulldoze his way into Clan's starting line-up and make his first appearance on the Braehead ice.

However, Russell admits: "I know it'll be difficult to get much game time, but all I can do is try to impress when I get the opportunity."

His signing means the end of the road for reserve keeper Joe Myers, who has been freed. But Russell, originally from Baillieston, can't wait to make a start for his hometown team.

He said: "I'm ready for a new challenge and I'm looking forward to working for Clan and finally getting the chance to play at Braehead Arena.

"I hope to eventually gain a starting spot in the Elite League and all I can do is take the chance when it comes to me.

"I want as much ice time as I can get, and, while I'm looking forward to working with whoever else comes in, I'll want to keep them on their toes and push them hard.

"I'm not looking to just sit on a bench, but I'm prepared to have to do it for Braehead. I see this as an opportunity to better myself and I see this as the ideal way to achieve that."

Joining the Sharks in 2008, Russell was decorated with a variety of accolades with the Dumfries side, one being the NIHL Moralee Conference and the play-offs.

In his second and third seasons, the Baillieston boy signed a two-way deal, but rarely made a start due to being hampered with injuries.

Nevertheless, Russell is adamant he won't let his injury-plagued past haunt him from fulfilling a dream.

He said: "I've always wanted to play for the club, but I've never been in a position where I could play full-time for the Clan and now it's come. I'm happy to grab it as it could be my last."

Russell also has a keen outlook on the coaching staff at the Clan, stating: "As for the coach, from what I've heard about Ryan Finnerty, he expects you to work hard and that's the kind of challenge I'm looking to embrace."

Russell is now desperate to burst into the first team wearing that #1 jersey and joining his new team-mates Ben Davies, Matt Keith, Bari McKenzie, Matt Haywood, Lee Esders, Zach Sullivan and Jordan Cownie as Clan target another successful season.