SWINDON have sacked Nicolai Klindt just five matches into the Elite League season.

Aussie ace Dakota North comes in to replace the Danish rider and manager Alun Rossiter admits it's not been an easy decision.

North, 22, will make his Robins debut on Thursday when the side look to bounce back from back-to-back defeats by Poole as they face Eastbourne at the Abbey.

Swindon have only won one of their opening five Elite League meetings and Rossiter admits Klindt is unlucky.

He said: "I wanted to do something to show everyone, the team, our sponsors and our supporters, that we are not prepared to accept second best.

"It's harsh on Nicolai but we need something extra.

"Dak is a rider I've been interested in before. I tried to sign him when I was at Coventry and again last season I was interested, I've been following his scores in Poland and I'm pleased to welcome him to Swindon.

"As we all know, the league isn't decided until September and October – there's time for us to get it right."