Captain Fantastic returns to the Dome (From Messenger Newspapers)

Captain Fantastic returns to the Dome

5:18pm Tuesday 7th August 2012 in Sport

MANCHESTER Phoenix’s club captain Luke Boothroyd is remaining at the Dome for a fifth season.

Recognised as one of the best British defencemen in the league, 25-year-old Boothroyd will take his appearances in Phoenix colours over the 250 mark in the coming season.

He took over as captain in 2009 and led the team to the English Premier League championship trophy in 2010/11.

Luke said: " I am very happy to be back in Phoenix colours for another season. It really says it all for me when a player and club have a long relationship like we have.

“It really is a good fit for me, and must be for the club to be asked back again. It is good to hear nice things about yourself, especially from the coach.

“The team is shaping up well and with absolutely no disrespect to those players we have replaced, I think we have more than adequate replacements. It looks like we have added some grit to the forwards along with speed and good hands. It all bodes well for the new season."

Coach Hand said: “I thought Luke was our most consistent player last season. Totally reliable every night. His game came on superbly last year and got himself among the goals as well. He is great in the dressing room and I am very pleased to have him back.”