UNCERTAINTY looms over the future of Premier League ice hockey at Altrincham Ice Dome.

Following a row over payment of fees, it is unclear whether Manchester Phoenix will play the 2015/16 season at the 2,000 capacity Altrincham rink, where it has been based since 2007.

The disagreement became public when arena landlord Silver Blades management posted a statement on its website making a series of allegations about Manchester Phoenix.

This statement has since been taken down.

These allegations included financial arrangement issues and the failure of the partners to reach an agreement to continue to use the rink.

Silver Blades claimed it has offered to reduce the charge by 20 per cent from £2,250 to £1,800 per game.

Directors Mike Petrouis and Mark Johnson also expressed concern that they were not kept in the picture about a new investor being brought into Manchester Phoenix, Red Hockey Ltd, with a 34 per cent stake.

The Silver Blades statement said: "The current position is that there is no contract in place between the Manchester Phoenix and Silver Blades Altrincham.

But Neil Morris, the managing director of Manchester Phoenix, hit back, denying the financial arrangement issues.

“We would like to categorically state that there has not ever been any misuse of any funds by the Manchester Phoenix,” he said.

“However, we do not believe that it is productive to respond to false or misleading statements in this forum. Rather, we leave it to our fans to look at the available information, our history with the team and the fans, and make their own evaluation.”

He released a further statement confirming that the two-time Premier league champions would be taking part in the 2015/16 EPIHL season.

After having had lengthy talks with the English Ice Hockey Association, preparations are now under way for the new season with players already being signed up.

Mr Morris said: “This is great news for Manchester Phoenix and whether we are playing in Altrincham or at another venue, the club will be in the EPL next season.

“We would like to stay at Silverblades in Altrincham, but I have made sure the situation is in hand. Tony Hand and I already have some exciting new plans for the coming season.”

Red Hockey CEO Wayne Scholes, who recently bought 34 per cent share in Manchester Phoenix, said that it was “reassuring” to have confirmation and backing from the league regarding the club’s status.

“We are hoping that the Silver Blades organisation would recognise the great privilege and opportunity it is to have such a successful team in their rink.

“Therefore we’re hopeful that a reasonable conversation can take place and an agreement can be met. It is in everybody’s interest that we get our preparations in place as soon as possible.

“Rest assured, Manchester Phoenix will be competing in the English Premier Ice Hockey League next season. They are part of the Red Hockey family, and as such, can look forward to an exciting future.”