Manchester Storm coach Ryan Finnerty says he’s hopeful Chris Auger will return better after the forward agreed to a second campaign with the club.

The 30-year-old saw his first season curtailed by injury as Storm won the Patton Conference and finished second in the Elite League standings.

And Finnerty was glad to bring back a player he believes was ‘complete’ as he continues building his roster.

“We saw early on what Auger can bring to the team when he’s healthy,” Finnerty said. “I felt before his injury, he was one of the most complete players we had. 

“Chris has undergone successful surgery and we hope he is back-mid September and I’m confident we will see a much healthier and improved player this year which is great news.”

Auger arrived last summer from Brampton Beast in the ECHL and picked up 14 points (7+7) in 28 appearances for the Storm last season.

He previously played for Fife Flyers in the EIHL and his return to these shores didn’t quite go as planned, with injury keeping him out between October and January.

However Auger is coming back and as well as turning out for Manchester, he’ll study at the University of Salford as well.

He said: “It was an easy decision to come back and build on what we started last season. The fans are amazing and I’m excited to be able to play in front of them again at the Shelter.

“I’m also thrilled at the opportunity to be able to continue my education at the University of Salford to earn my MBA.”

PHOTO: Mark Ferriss