MANCHESTER Phoenix head coach Tony Hand has continued building his team for the new ice hockey season by adding Czech import forward Frantisek Bakrlik and Brit Adam Walker to the roster.

The 30-year-old power forward Bakrlik re-signs for the club after leading the Phoenix to the English Premier League title last season.

He netted 44 goals and 35 assists in just 49 games whilst he also scored the overtime winner against Swindon in the Playoff Semi Final win in Coventry.

Hand used Bakrlik in all situations on the ice and his big shot proved useful especially on the powerplay. His impressive career spans over 500 games and he has played for Elite League sides Hull Stingrays, Fife Flyers and Coventry Blaze in the past.

Hand said: “Frankie had a fine season last time out and played a considerable part in our championship winning team. It is good to have him back on board for another season.”

Kirkcaldy born forward Adam Walker returns to the Phoenix after a four year absence. After leaving the Altrincham based side in 2010, he spent three seasons with Elite League outfit Braehead Clan before icing last season with Telford Tigers.

The last time Walker iced for the Phoenix he amassed 102 points in their first season in the EPL netting 49 goals and 53 assists.

Walker said: “It is great to come back to Phoenix. They are one of the most professional organisations in British Hockey. I have had 4 great years away at Braehead and Telford but I know I have made the right decision to come back.

“I want to win trophies and Manchester is the place to be. The fans were great to me last time and I hope I can be a winner with them this time around.”

Frantisek Bakrlik celebrates scoring last season - by Richard Amor Allan