Marko Luomala has been released from his contract by MK Lightning.

The Finnish forward is the second import to leave the club in the last week, following the recent departure of Rene Jarolin.

Head Coach Pete Russell explained why the recent moves have been necessary: “We need to push on, to put us in the best position possible on all fronts. We had a solid start to the season but we have had a tough period recently – and that can’t continue.

“Players are signed for specific roles and with certain expectations, and unfortunately the two players we’ve released haven’t brought the offense we hoped for on a regular basis.

“It’s never an easy decision to make, but we owe it to our supporters and also our sponsors to put the best team on the ice that we can.

“We want to thank Marko for the part he has played for us so far – he and his family leave with our wishes for every success in the future, wherever that takes them.”

Lightning are expected to announce a replacement import forward in the coming days.

(Image permission: Tony Sargent)