Poole snap up Miedzinski

The 26-year-old has agreed terms with the Pirates in an initial deal until May, when the two parties will assess the situation.

Miedzinski will come into Poole's side on just a 5.57 average and is seen as real trump card by the Pirates management.

"I am very pleased to confirm that Adrian has signed a contract with us through until May," said Poole chief Matt Ford, who also confirmed young Aussie Todd Kurtz as a squad member.

"That doesn't for one moment mean he will only be with us until then. The idea is to see how things go and should it work out for all concerned, then we can extend the agreement.

"It isn't unknown for clubs to agree these short-term contracts, although previously they have been with perhaps more prestigious riders, the likes of Andreas Jonsson, Tony Rickardsson and Nicki Pedersen.

"Perhaps the only thing a little out of the ordinary is that we are starting the season with a short-term contract. In the past such agreements have usually been used to cover for absences mid-term.

"Adrian will be lodging with me during his stay in the UK and that will undoubtedly give us plenty of opportunities to assess the situation.

"I would like to thank my Torun counterpart Wojciech Stepniewski for his assistance in helping to bring this agreement together.

"I have a great deal of respect of Wojciech and so a recommendation from him is well worth considering. I am fully aware that he regards Adrian as a star pupil and I am looking forward to working with the rider this season."

Demand

Meanwhile, Miedzinski's parent club Swindon claim Poole did not seek permission to hold talks with the Pole and issued a statement demanding a transfer fee.

A Robins statement read: "The club have noted announcements made by both the rider and Poole Speedway regarding the 2012 season in the last 24 hours which state that Adrian will be riding for the Dorset club.

"We were in talks with Adrian about returning to the UK to ride for Swindon in 2012 and we offered him personal terms in November.

"Despite our efforts, we have had no communication from the rider since the beginning of December and at no stage was another club given permission to speak to him.

"Consequently, we will now insist on the transfer of the rider's contract, which we are entitled to do.

"Clearly Poole Speedway, like ourselves, recognise the potential for Adrian to substantially increase his starting average and the valuation of the rider will reflect that."