EPL ICE HOCKEY: Phoenix Head Coach Tony Hand expects Trent Hope and Phil Spanswick to be fan favourites in the English Premier League next season.

The pair became Hand’s latest signings this week, as he puts the finishing touches to a his squad that will challenge for the title next season.

Hope is the son of former Cardiff Devils defenceman Shannon Hope, and returns to the UK after a number of years playing in Canada.

Spanswick, meanwhile, will fill the back-up slot to netminder Stephen Fone, following a promising career with the University of Calgary.

Both players arrive at the Phoenix with bagfuls of crucial North American experience – and for Hand, that could prove to be a key advantage.

Hand said: “These two guys really stood out for me. They both have the potential to be a real handful next season.

“Trent is a forward who was impressive during his junior years in Cardiff and has carried that through to his career in Canada. I expect him to score plenty of goals for us.

“He is a very skilful player who on his day, can win close games for us. That is a quality I believe will be a massive benefit next year.

“Phil is a solid netminder who performed well for the University of Calgary. He will probably start as back-up to Stephen Fone, but again I expect him to develop as the year progresses.

“Last season, we had two great netminders in Stephen and Declan Ryan, who pushed each other all the way. After bringing in Phil, we have been able to retain those standards.

“Both Trent and Phil are committed to The Phoenix and will leave nothing on the ice. Our supporters appreciate that and I am sure they will become favourites.”

Phoenix owner, Neil Morris, is looking forward to seeing his side’s latest signings during pre-season training.

He said: “It is getting closer to the start of the season and with us playing out of Deeside, it is going to be a very exciting year.

“These two guys have all the attributes of a classic Phoenix player. Skill, heart and lots of commitment.

“Trent has the potential to be one of the stars of our side next season, while Phil is a very, very good netminder.

“I can’t wait to see the guys in pre-season action and then, in the English Premier League itself.”