MANCHESTER Phoenix player coach Tony Hand has pulled off his second signing coup from the Coventry Blaze.

Following the acquisition of netminder Steven Fone, all-action forward Greg Wood looks set to become a fan favourite in Altrincham next season.

With three-and-half years experience in the Elite League under his belt, 22-year-old, Sheffield-born Greg was being targeted by a number of English Premier League clubs, but after speaking with Tony Hand, playing for the Phoenix organisation became the only thing on his mind.

He said: “I’d spoken to a couple of other clubs and they were keen to sign me, and then I got the phone call from Tony Hand. He explained what the Manchester club was all about and he was extremely clear about how he saw me fitting in and I knew straight away, this was the move to make.

“Being with a great set-up in Coventry has taught me a lot and now I’m moving to another great set-up and I’m excited about the opportunity coming to Manchester presents me.”

Describing himself as a ‘utility’ forward, Greg Wood can play on either wing or at centre and is looking forward to playing in all situations for the Phoenix.

He added: “I’ve always played on the penalty kill and I’m looking forward to getting more opportunity to play a part and improve my play on the powerplay too.

“This is a great time for me to try a new situation and being coached by and playing with Tony Hand will be a terrific chance for me. Hopefully, my experience of the Elite League will help the team as I’m keen to win and be part of a winning team.”

Tony said: “Paul Thompson spoke highly of Greg and being involved with the GB team, I’ve seen him close up myself to know what he’s capable of.

“He’s a high energy player, a very good prospect and is a quality addition to our British player contingent. I’m looking forward to working with all these guys and I think Phoenix fans will be pleasantly surprised at the energy they’ll all bring to the club.”