Sheffield Steelers: It's the simple things in life for Davey

The blueliner didn’t have the best of seasons at Manchester Storm last year, where he was an assistant captain.

But coach Paul Thompson knows him well enough to predict big things at the House of Steel.

“Last year, with respect, Davey was at a club where he was expected to do a bit of everything” he said. “Here in Sheffield, it will be a clearly-defined role. He will be asked to make quick plays, we have forwards that need the puck early - we are a puck possession team. The quality and speed of passes from defence can turn matches.

“The best teams in the world have d-men who support the forwards, quickly.

“Davey is a big lad, skates well, can hit, and we will be asking him to keep things simple.

“He, like everyone, can improve. He is excited to come to Sheffield, as we are a bigger team in this league and are expected to win.”

Securing the home-grown player had the added benefit of allowing Thompson to bring in another overseas forward, who could perhaps centre the fourth line.

“With Davey being English it means we could get another import which has immediately created depth” said Thompson.

“Our depth or lack of it almost cost us the league last year.”

While Phillips is a product of the Hull programme, he honed his talents in the AHL with Rockford IceHogs - a chapter of his career which Thompson believes has been of immense value.