Swindon Wildcats general manager Steve Nell has confirmed the club have relased Candian star Joel Petkoff from his contract.

The 26 year-old Canadian started the season in the German Oberliga with EC Peiting before rejoining the Wildcats for his third spell in three seasons, having been brought in as an early roster change to lead team and league scoring.

Unfortunately for Petkoff and the Wildcats, apart from an impressive debut against the Romford Raiders, the winger's performances and points output have not lived upto expectations.

"This was not a kneejerk reaction Joel was put on notice the same week that former Head Coach Pete Russell left the club," said Nell "Before we agreed to bring him back in October, we discussed our expectations - particularly as he was to become the largest earner in the club.

"We're not prepared to carry anyone who is not achieving their performance targets.

"We made Ryan aware of the situation when we asked him to step up into the Coaching role, and he understands why this action has to be taken.

"He is now tasked with recruiting a suitable replacement in the coming weeks.

"We have a great core of players here and you only have to look at the team scoring charts to show that we have strength across the forward lines.

"We certainly have no bad feelings towards Joel. It is sad that, for whatever reason, he has not been able to meet his targets.

"We wish him well in his next challenge."