American forward Denny Kearney will make his Cardiff Devils home debut against Coventry Blaze on Saturday and he’s tipped to make a big impact over the rest of this season.

Kearney, who joined Devils from Italian club Bolzano, is a high-end forward capable of tipping the title balance in the favour of leaders Devils.

He has played three successive away matches – two against Belfast and one in Nottingham – and is now ready to skate out in front of Devils fans at Ice Arena Wales (Saturday, 7pm).

All 10 Elite League clubs had the chance to sign Kearney, but Devils moved fast and brought him to South Wales.

His presence over the last nine League fixtures could prove crucial in the battle to win the title.

Devils looked at Walker, who signed for Sheffield Steelers, and then saw that Kearney was available.

“Denny’s name came across the desk of all Elite League clubs when he was released by Bolzano,” says Cardiff managing director Todd Kelman. “We jumped at it immediately.

“He has been playing for a team in a league which should be better than Elite League and is certainly similar in a number of ways.

“Denny is a quality player who puts up good numbers, a winger who has fitted in well with us.

“There was never any thought that we would let a player go. We have the potential of going for three trophies this season and it was important to strengthen and give ourselves the best possible chance.

“Last season we had fitness problems with two key players suffering injuries at the same time. Neither should have been playing at all. Andrew Hotham and Joey Martin, probably our best two players, were both hurt and played on in the best way they could.

“We wanted to give them a rest, we should have given them a rest, but it just wasn’t possible and both guys were keen to play.

“Right now we are in a dog fight for the league and anything can happen. Denny Kearney will certainly help our cause.”

Devils are at home against Blaze on Saturday and then travel to play Edinburgh Capitals in Scotland on Sunday.

Saturday’s home fixture against Coventry is already sold out, while ticket information for remaining home fixtures is available from the hotline on 0800 0842 666.