Adam Johnson: Nottingham Panthers to return to Elite League action following player's death

A memorial service was held for Adam Johnson at Nottingham Panthers' Motorpoint Arena home

Nottingham Panthers will return to competitive action for the first time almost a month after the death of player Adam Johnson.

Johnson, 29, suffered a fatal neck injury from a skate in a match against Sheffield Steelers on 28 October.

Panthers will play their first Elite League game since the tragedy against Belfast Giants at their Motorpoint Arena home on 26 November.

That match follows a memorial game for Johnson on Saturday.

Panthers chief executive Omar Pacha said returning to the ice for a league match will be "an important step" for all involved at the club.

It will be the only major competition the club is involved in this season after they withdrew from the Challenge Cup.

"We'd like to thank our amazing fans for their remarkable support, understanding and patience in the past few weeks," said Pacha.

"The strength this team has shown to get back to training and prepare for a return to action has been remarkable. We will continue to support our team on and off the ice in any way possible.

"At the Adam Johnson Memorial Game this Saturday, we will have the opportunity to both remember and celebrate Adam's life before returning to full league action at the Motorpoint Arena on Sunday, 26 November."

Panthers' imminent return to action comes as a man was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter over Johnson's death.