Belfast Giants coach Steve Thornton has moved to replace USA-bound defenceman Davy Phillips — by signing his older brother, Kevin.

Davy is on his way to the the Rockford IceHogs — an affiliate team of NHL side the Chicago Blackhawks — after an impressive first season in Belfast.

And sibling Kevin is now keen to ensure that there is no gap left in the Giants defence.

“I’m really excited at the prospect of playing in Belfast next season,” said the 23-year-old former Hull Stingrays and London Racers player and under-20 international.

“I’ve heard only good things from Davy about the organisation, the fans and the city and, with the team that coach Steve Thornton has put together, I have no doubt that we’ll be up there with the best come the end of the season.”