Leeds Knights: Cole Shudra on his respect for former coach Dave Whistle after shock departure

The 55-year-old Canadian left on Wednesday afternoon, apparently by ‘mutual agreement’ after owner Steve Nell told him earlier in the week that he would only be required to continue at the club as GM, his feeling being that the dual role alongside coaching was too much for one person.

But former Belfast Giants and Cardiff Devils boss Whistle, appointed last May, was keen to continue as coach - having already led the team to the Autumn Cup Final - the pair eventually agreeing to go their separate ways.

Former Swindon Wildcats and Bracknell Bees coach Ryan Aldridge has stepped in on an interim basis to oversee the team, who he met for the first time at practice last night.

Shudra, 23, was in action on Wednesday for parent club Sheffield Steelers, picking up an assist in a 5-1 home win over Fife Flyers in the first leg of their Challenge Cup quarter-final.

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Speaking to BBC Sheffield afterwards, Shudra was asked about Whistle’s exit earlier that day, replying: “I’ve got a lot of respect for Dave, he’s a really great guy. It was obviously tough news to hear as we all liked Dave a lot.

“I don’t know, we just weren’t getting the results and I guess higher up decided it was time for a change. That’s hockey, unfortunately, and I guess we’ve just got to learn to roll with it and keep going.”