blog： Rankin hails Elite League quality
Newcastle Vipers forward Rob Rankin has hailed the quality of the Elite League as a major factor in his decision to return to England this season.
Rankin, 26, spent last season with the Hull Stingrays and believes there is little to separate home-grown talent from their foreign counterparts.
“Half the British guys could go over in the United States league and have no problem,” he told BBC Look North.
“It’s a good pace, it’s physical and it’s perfect for my style of play.”
Rankin also highlighted the workload of US hockey, and is looking forward to getting involved with the Vipers – once he has acclimatised to life in the North East.
“I want to be in top shape going into the weekend games but I just got off the plane,” he joked.
“I will give it my all and that’s just the type of player I am. Last year I was really nervous coming over and this year I feel really comfortable coming in.
