The Swede's western shoulder has haunted him throughout his career and this season the 27-year-old from Hammarö has not played at all.

A month ago, he underwent surgery.

Klefbom, who plays for the NHL club Edmonton, describes the operation as successful at a press conference with North American media.

Now a long rehabilitation awaits the hill who does not know when - or if - he can be back on the ice.

- That's the thing ... it's hard to say.

He (the doctor) says I can come play again, but it's always a risk.

We will see how I feel when the rehabilitation comes to an end, and it is time to make a decision.

It will be followed up many times, says Klefbom.

Quality of life is a priority

There is no doubt that Klefbom wants to return to the ice.

Despite the shoulder pain during his career, he has been a leading player in Edmonton and he wants to continue to be.

But there are also parameters to keep in mind.

- When it comes to quality of life, I think everyone thinks it is the highest priority.

You want a good life after hockey too.

Of course I want to play again.

I have played with pain and many other players have done the same, but when it affects how you sleep or how you put on your clothes, it came to a point where I wanted the operation done, he says.

"More than hockey"

It has been a mentally difficult time for Klefbom.

- It has been mentally difficult to know that you need surgery and that you are not 100 percent sure if you will be able to come back and play, or how the quality of life after the hockey career will be, says Oscar Klefbom.

ARCHIVE: The NHL record of all time by San Jose Marleau (April 20)

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Patrick Marleau, 41, has now made the most NHL appearances of all time.

Photo: TT News Agency