Steelers skipper Jonathan Phillips looking forward to 'privilege' of being part of Great Britain Olympic qualifying bid

The Sheffield Steelers' skipper leads Great Britain out in the Olympic qualifiers, hoping for an eventual place in Beijing's 2022 Winter Olympics.

GB play Romania on Thursday night before taking on Estonia and Hungary on Saturday and Sunday, in a winner-takes-all outcome.

The forward said Hungary, who are the highest seeds, pose potentially the most difficult task.

"We know what Hungary are all about from the last few seasons" said Phillips.

"I think Romania are up and coming they have just made division 1A now, I don't think we have seen them for a while.

"Estonia have always been a tough team to play against, they have got some skilled guys who can score.

"We are going to have to bring our 'A' game for three games and work our backsides off."

Phillips was an integral part in GB's successful World Championship tournament last year.

The Welshman said the dramatic win over France that secured survival at the top level had been a career highlight.

The World Championship tournament had been "pretty special..it was long and it was intense.

"But it is something that you will never forget.

"It was on the biggest stage... and to be three goals down (against France) and to come back and show the fight that we did is something that will definitely be in the memory bank forever."

Phillips has been an ever-present after 54 games with Steelers so far in EIHL Cup and league competitions.

His form and consistency has been an important factor in Sheffield reaching the top of the league and the final of the Challenge Cup.

But the veteran says there will be no fatigue for him or the others.

"It is something we are all used to, especially coming down to this part of the season.

"We are forever kind of playing three a week - it (Olympic qualifer) is three in four days, when it is playing for your country, in a big competition like that, it is a chance to advance to the final round for the Olympic qualifications and I don't think it even enters your head.

"It is a privilege to be a part of.

"I don't think it will be a problem."