Glasgow Clan coach Pete Russell says new signing Josh Gratton adds another element to his side as he begins to firm up the last of his roster.

The 35-year-old is vastly experienced, having played in the NHL, AHL and the KHL and will now continue his career in the Elite League.

And Russell spoke of the attributes he’ll bring to his side and reckons Gratton’s signing gives Clan some extra physicality.

“Josh has had a career in some of the best leagues in the world and he brings a wealth of experience, leadership and of course toughness,” Russell said.

"He’s a up and down hard-nosed player, honest and has a heavy shot. If you add the fact he’s a legitimate tough guy, this signing really adds a total different dimension to our line-up.

“On top of that he is a strong character and well respected in the locker room.  Josh along with Zack Fitzgerald’s presence should make every guy on our roster play a lot bigger.

“With this addition to the group, our team has not only got tougher but it’s also offensively deeper too. 

“Our goal is to make Braehead Arena a very tough place for our opponents to come and take points from.”

Gratton joins the Clan with an impressive career which has seen him play 86 games in the NHL, over 300 games in the AHL and 81 games in the KHL.

His brother, Brad, was a former coach at Edinburgh Capitals in 2010/11 and he worked with him at French side Epinal last season.

Clan have announced he will wear the number 22 jersey this season.

PHOTO: Timo Savela