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Graham chuffed to re-sign for Phoenix

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Just hours before going on holiday, British defenceman Carl Graham agreed terms for a second season with the Manchester Phoenix.

"I'm very, very pleased to get the chance to re-sign," said the 24-year old. "I'd been hoping that Tony would call and ask me to come back, but I was a little nervous when I saw his number come up on the 'phone. We had a good talk and he told me what he wants next season, and I'm really chuffed to get this chance again."

With a holiday in Florida the immediate future, Graham added, "Getting the call from Tony when I did means I can really enjoy the attractions of Disney, Cape Canaveral etc, and now I'm really looking forward to the rest of the summer knowing I'll be back with the Phoenix. Tony was very encouraging to me last season, and he's made it clear that he wants me to work on my speed for next season. The players at this level are bigger, the game is faster and there's more puck control, and he's encouraged me to work on my general fitness and speed."

Phoenix head coach Tony Hand commented, "Carl joined us last season for his first year in the top flight and he didn't let himself down at all. He's a very likeable young man and I've told him the areas I think he needs to work on. I'm hopeful that he'll be able to raise his game another level next season."

Hand added, "I talked with Carl about the role I expect him to play for the club next season. He did reasonably well last season, but now he needs to push himself that bit harder through the summer so as to come to pre-season fit, strong and ready to go."

Phoenix currently have three other contract offers out and Hand added, "I'm fairly confident that all three offers will result in positive outcomes, but if not, then we'll move on, we've plenty of options available right now."

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