BOSS Neil Morris believes new signings Ciaran Long and Josh Ward will bring a burst of energy to Manchester Phoenix.

The talented Great Britain under 20 internationals joined the club today continuing a policy of developing young talent.

“Both these lads are good players who will be a real asset to the team,” said Morris. “Signing young players like this is what has made us successful and it is a policy we will continue as it will only make us stronger as a club.

“These guys will bring tenacity and grit to the side just like Tommy Duggan did last season.

“And playing either side of Tommy I think they will make a great line.”

Long, aged 20, has joined from English Premier League side Basingstoke Bison while 19-year-old Ward has signed from Elite League giants Nottingham Panthers.

Both have represented Great Britain throughout their junior careers and both played for the GB under 20 side which won a bronze medal in the World Championships.

Hand said: “These two guys have really good experience considering they are still so young.

“They can only get better with us and I think they will fit in well with the side we are putting together.

“They have got fantastic potential, are both great guys, and will be great assets to the team.”

Birmingham born Long began his career with Swindon before joining Slough Jets and winning the play-offs.

He scored 30 points for Basingstoke last season and has played over 200 games in the EPL. He’s a big lad at 6ft 3ins and can look after himself on the ice.

Ward played 35 games for the Panthers last season and picked up a Elite League play-off winners’ medal.