Manchester Phoenix have been hit by another major blow after learning that top import Stanislav Gron will be out for some time after suffering a fractured jaw.

The injury happened in a clash with Peterborough Phantoms’ forward Martins Susters last Sunday. The players collided in mid-ice in the first period and Gron fell awkwardly, sustaining the injury.

Gron had an operation this week to insert a small plate in his jaw and is expected to be out for around four weeks.

Head Coach Tony Hand commented: “It is another blow we will just have to deal with and get on with things. Stan is probably one of the best imports in the league and to suffer two injuries like he has is more than unfortunate.

“These things happen in hockey and we just have to pool the resources we have and get on with the season.”

The 37-year-old Slovakian joined Phoenix this season from Cortina in Italy and has 12 goals and 13 assists in his 15 games for the club.