Manchester Phoenix release top player (From Messenger Newspapers)

Manchester Phoenix release top player

2:48pm Thursday 13th September 2012 in Sport

MANCHESTER Phoenix has released its man of the match from last week, Timo Kuuluvainen, with immediate effect.

Kuuluvainen, 28, underwent a knee operation in the summer and had hoped he would be completely fit for the new season.

However it became apparent after last week’s games against the Sheffield Steeldogs that he was still having problems with the knee.

After consultation with the club’s medical staff, the Finnish forward was given the news that it would take at least a month or possibly more before he would be fit to return to active duty.
 

As a result, the club made the decision to release Kuuluvainen.
 

Coach, Tony Hand MBE, said: “It is a big blow for the lad. He was told that he would be fully fit for the new season and that he would make a complete recovery.
 

“Sadly this has not been the case and he has had problems with the knee after the Sheffield game.
 

“Timo fully understands that the club are not in a position to be an import forward down for such a long time and he will be going home for rest and rehab.”

Managing Director Neil Morris, Hand and others at the club wished Kuuluvainen a full recovery and that he will continue his career as soon as possible.
 

Hand said: “Since the decision was taken, I have been working hard to bring in a replacement forward and hope to have someone in place as soon as possible.”