Jonathan Weaver is predicting further improvements in the standard of the EPL ahead of his third season with Telford Tigers.

The Great Britain star has been a key player for the Tigers since moving to Shropshire in 2014, collecting 89 points in just 71 games.

Weaver said: “The league has massively improved in the time I’ve been at Telford – I was surprised at the standard of play when I first arrived.

“Last year there was a massive step up from all the teams. I’m not sure if that was in response to what we did the season before or just a natural improvement.

“A lot of clubs went with import netminders, but all the players stepped up a gear. I’ve no doubt that there will be similar improvements next season.”

Weaver was a revelation for GB at April’s World Championship tournament, collecting five points in five games as the national side narrowly missed out on promotion to Division 1A.

The 39-year-old enjoyed a short break after those exertions in Croatia, but he’s already looking forward to a return to pre-season training.

“Everyone needs time to recover, especially after a full season and then the World Championships,” said Weaver.

“There was a lot of travelling, and then we played five games in seven days.

“Personally, I was happy with my form, especially after a league season that was so interrupted by injury. It was good to show that I can still play at that level.

“I’m taking a few weeks off before going back into the gym. I’ll probably take another holiday later in the summer, but I want to make sure I’m fully fit and ready to go in August.

Last season left a bitter taste in the mouth, with the injuries we suffered at Telford and the disappointment with GB.

“I want to get going again and start putting that right.”

(Image permission: IceHockeyMedia)