Koulikov on World Championship duty

Koulikov is the boss of the national squad who are involved in World Championship Division 2, Group A competition in the coming days.

Great Britain are hosts at the Dumfries Ice Bowl where they will face Estonia, Japan, Korea, Holland and Romania in a tournament that runs from Sunday to December 16.

Koulikov said: “We had to make some tough decisions when naming the squad. It proves we have great depth and some excellent prospects in Great Britain.

“I’m very happy with a well-balanced squad. Competition for places was really fierce and some quality players have not made the final roster.

“We’re all looking forward to getting started and it will be an even more special experience to be on home ice.

“With the right preparation, lots of commitment and a bit of luck we will have a good chance to compete for medals.”

Phantoms defenceman Ed Knaggs features in the squad along with Morgan Clarke-Pizzo, the son of GB legend and city man David Clarke.