Walker looking forward

AFTER a particularly ineffective 2007, Adam Walker is beginning to put some form together for Manchester Phoenix.

This season he has already scored four points and that has helped his Club to a high position in the bmibaby Elite Ice Hockey League and the top of their Challenge Cup group.

It's a good turn of events for the Scottish forward who was, by his own admission, poor last season.

"I started off really well and although the points are not coming as freely as they did, I'm not too disappointed," he said. "I feel that I am contributing to the team I other ways."

Now in his fourth season at the Club, Adam has been moved up onto the second line, bulked up and looks a threat to opposition's defences.

"I am happy with the way the team is playing and happy with the way I am too," he continued. "I scored five goals in the pre-season warm up games and I am looking for more."

Manchester expect to announce a new signing this week to replace want-away forward Grant Jacobsen.

Player-coach Tony Hand said: "We've identified a new player to come and join the team, and we'll be working hard to try and get him into the UK as quickly as possible.

"He's a big, strong guy who will certainly give us more size and a greater physical presence, and the references indicate a clever player too."