News

Hand continues to weigh up import options

Monday, 28th June 2010

Manchester Phoenix player-coach Tony Hand has re-iterated he's in no rush to sign his quota of four non-British trained players for the 2010-11 season.

"We've had a number of fresh CVs' come through in the past week or so, but nothing that had me leaping for the 'phone if I'm brutally honest," said the Scot from his Edinburgh home. "To be honest, I'm a little surprised that some of the other teams have moved as early as they have - I prefer to wait and see what comes up and right now, that's looking more and more like the best policy to follow."

"There are some players with the right experience and I might make a move in at least one direction quite soon, but there is no need to rush or panic whatsoever. It's possible that the first player we sign will further determine the mix of import defencemen and forwards."

Hand of course is still waiting on confirmation of the status of Robert Farmer for next season. The former Sheffield Scimitar and Steeler has been in North America attending training camp and trials at the Dubuque Fighting Saints in Iowa and Hand is very hopeful that the player will be in the Phoenix line-up come September.

Hand stated on Sunday, "I've had a couple of text messages from Robert about his initial trial and am just awaiting final word from him. He was naturally a little disappointed not to be selected initially, but from what I gather got a second chance. The last I heard from him, he indicated he'll be a Phoenix player this coming season and I'm looking forward to working with him."