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Another two return to the champions

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J Davidson sponsored Manchester Phoenix are delighted to announce the re-signing of two players from last season’s roster.

Czech Republic forward  Michal Psurny returns for his third season in Phoenix colours, having helped Phoenix to the Championship; becoming the league’s top points scorer with 45 goals and 54 assists for an amazing 99 points. His scoring earned him a place on the English Premier League’s First All-Star Team. Michal’s total for his two seasons at the Dome is impressive; played 104 games, 88 goals and 100 assists.

He played for his home town Zlin at under 18 and under 20 levels before making his debut for the senior side in 2003. In 2005 Michal took a trip across the pond to play for Medicine Hat Tigers and Kotenay Ice in the Western Hockey league before returning home to dress once again in Zlin colours. Michal has vast experience in the Czech Leagues and has iced 103 times in the Extraliga. He joined Phoenix in 2012 from HC Olomouc of the Czech 2nd division. He has represented his country at Under 16, Under 18 and Under 20 level and has an Extraliga winner’s medal to go along with his English Premier League Play-off and Championship medals.

Michal said this about his return to Manchester:

“ It is good to be back in Manchester. I like to see that Robin and Frankie are back too. We will be ready to defend our title. See you all in September “

Coach Hand commented:

“Michal has been fantastic for Phoenix the last two seasons and it is no mean feat to top the League Points scoring list. He is a favourite with the fans and I am sure he will continue to rack the points up for us.” 

Also returning to the fold for his sixth season in Phoenix colours is the popular forward turned defenceman James Neil. James has now iced 263 games for the club, scoring 13 goals and 62 assists whilst picking up only 40 penalty minutes. Known for his steady, unfussy style of play, his previous experience as a forward is an asset to the team as he finds a way to play out of defence and set up his forwards.

James, at only 24 years old, also has 148 Elite League appearances for Nottingham Panthers and has also represented Great Britain in the World Junior Championships at Under 18 and 20 levels. His 23 appearances for his country has earned him 2 Silver and 1 Gold Medal.

James had this to say about his return:

”I love playing for Phoenix and it was easy to re-sign when Tony (Coach Hand) asked me. The club is a great, professional organisation and looks after the players. The fans are second to none in the league. Why would I want to play anywhere else?”

Coach Hand said:

”James has been with the club a while now and knows the organisation and the league as well as anyone. He is an integral part of the squad and I am delighted to have him back.”