Manchester Phoenix announce capture of Scott McKenzie from Telford Tigers

TIGER NO MORE: Scott is now at Phoenix

By Steven Oldham, Sports Correspondent

Manchester Phoenix have signed forward Scott McKenzie from English Premier League rivals Telford Tigers for the forthcoming 2012/2013 season.

McKenzie is the Altrincham based club's first new face to be confirmed this summer after previous announcements of returning players from last season.

Despite Tigers finishing well adrift at the bottom of the EPL table last season, McKenzie scored an impressive 25 goals and created 30 assists.

He said: "I want to have the opportunity to win trophies and, when Tony Hand got in touch, it was a no brainer for me. Manchester are a big club and have fantastic fans and I am really looking forward to pulling on a Phoenix shirt."

"I thoroughly enjoyed my two years with Telford. They are a great organisation and I wish them all the best."

The 26-year-old has already played in over 300 EPL games and has spent time in the Elite League with the Edinbiurgh Capitals.

Phoenix Coach Tony Hand said: "Scott will be a good addition to the squad. He has had two good seasons with Telford, scoring at roughly a point a game and I expect him to put up some good numbers for us.

"He is a good all round player who will fit in to our method of play.”

McKenzie was unveiled at a 'Meet the Phoenix... so far' night at the Altrincham Cresta Court Hotel alongside the returning James Neil, Ciaran Long, James Archer and Steve Fone.

Archer is returning to the club for a third season with Fone set to wear Phoenix colours for a fourth consecutive season.

James said: "It is great to be back for Phoenix for another year."

Both Archer and Fone were members of the EPL Championship winning team of the 2010/11 season, and Coach Hand has monitored Fone's progression into one of the best netminders in the division.

Coach Stephen had a very steady season last time out and has matured into a fine netminder. It is good to have him back and hopefully he will continue his fine form.”

Keep your eyes on MM in coming weeks for more signing news from the Ice Dome.

Follow Steven Oldham on Twitter - @spoldham

Photo courtesy of RGA Photography