Manchester Phoenix have confirmed forward Nico Aaltonen has left the club and returned to Finland as a result of a private family matter.

Aaltonen joined the EPL club from Kazakhstan side Arlan Kokshetau in the summer and went onto register 21 points in his 25 games with the club, including two crucial goals in the home win over Telford Tigers.

Phoenix Coach Tony Hand commented: “It’s never easy to lose a player at this stage in the season however Nico’s family must come first, and we completely understand his reasons for returning home.

“Nico has been a tremendous asset to the Phoenix and a fantastic player to coach. Everyone at the club is thinking about Nico during this difficult time, and we’d like to wish him and his family all the best for the future.”