Peterborough Phantoms have strengthened their defensive options with the signing of Ben Russell.

The 22-year old already has plenty of EPL experience under his belt, having played over 150 games for MK Lightning and Manchester Phoenix.

He has also represented Great Britain at U18 and U20 level.

Head Coach Slava Koulikov said: “We are very pleased to have Ben in our organisation – he is only 22 but already has become an experienced British ‘D’ man.

“Last season in Manchester Tony Hand brought the best out of him and developed Ben into a solid player.

“I spoke to Ben few times in the last couple of years. He is an intelligent person, has the mentality that we look for in order to be a Phantom and he is going to fit well in our dressing room.”

Russell added: “I’m excited to get started with the Phantoms. Growing up in Milton Keynes Peterborough was always the team that rivalled my own, so it’s exciting to be on the other side.

“After speaking with Slava I liked the direction he wants to go in and how he’s looking to take this team forward onto silverware.

“Making the decision to come to Phantoms is an easy one too. I will be closer to home, with less travelling than last year which is a massive plus for me.

“I’m not a flashy player but I pride myself on doing the little things that contribute to winning games.

“I won’t score too many goals but I’ll always try to stop them being scored on us through working hard, blocking shots and getting in the corners.”

(Image permission: Tony Sargent)