ROBIN Gomez is quitting Manchester Phoenix.

The fiery Canadian centre will play his last game against Sheffield Steelers on Saturday night before flying back to North America on Monday.

His decision to leave Phoenix just over a week before they are due to move into their new rink in Altrincham is a major blow to the club as it bids to consolidate a play-off place.

Coach Tony Hand said: "He has had a little difficulty settling here and came to me about a week ago and told me that he'd got interest from a club in the East Coast Hockey League and that he wanted to take up the offer.

It is believed Gomez has received a good offer from the Victoria Salmon Kings in British Columbia.

Phoenix have yet to find a suitable replacement and general manager Andy Costigan said: "Since Robin told us, we've been searching for a suitable replacement and have identified a couple of players."

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