PETR Cech has joined Belfast Giants on a short-term loan deal to help the Elite Ice Hockey league side deal with a current injury crisis.

The former Chelsea goalkeeper signed for Oxford City Stars in June, and has made a big impression on and off the ice.

Cech has played five times so far for the Stars, making 236 saves in the process. His temporary departure leaves Ross Miller and Joe Dollin as Stars’ goaltenders.

Stars director of hockey operations Shane Moore though is more than confident in his goaltending department.

READ ALSO: Oxford City boss looking to avoid Arsenal situation after adding keeper

He told the club website: “Steve Thornton of the Belfast Giants contacted me and asked if they could borrow Petr to help them through some goaltending issues.

“As a club, we see it as a great opportunity for Petr, and we are pleased that his capabilities are recognised and trusted at the Elite League level.

“I believe we have the best trio for goaltending in NIHL 1, so I am more than confident that giving Petr this opportunity will not affect our NIHL campaign.

“I have no doubt he will enjoy the experience and bring back that knowledge to the club. He goes with our best wishes, and we look forward to having him return in a week or so.”

Cech won every club honour possible while at Chelsea, spending 11 years at Stamford Bridge and collecting 13 major honours.

He joined the Blues after spells with Sparta Prague and Rennes, signing for Chelsea in a £7 million move in 2004.

Cech left the Blues for Arsenal, where he added another FA Cup medal to his collection, before retiring in 2019.

Following the end of his football career, he played for ice hockey sides Guildford Phoenix and Chelmsford Chieftains, prior to joining Stars.

Moore added: “This temporary loan to Belfast Giants provides Cech with an exciting opportunity to contribute his expertise to a club at the top level of British ice hockey.

“The move reflects the collaborative spirit within the ice hockey community and highlights the versatility and high calibre of athletes like Petr Cech.

“Oxford City Stars expresses its full support for Petr Cech during this loan period and looks forward to his return, confident that the experience gained will enhance both his individual growth and the overall strength of the team.

“I am sure our fans will join us in congratulating Petr and follow him during his time with the Belfast Giants.”

Giants head coach Adam Keefe told their club website: “We’re very appreciative of the support of both the Oxford City Stars and Petr himself.

“Petr is a highly decorated athlete, who knows what it takes to perform at the highest level, so his support during this loan period will be invaluable.”