Manchester Phoenix have announced the return of both James Archer and Robin Kovar for the 2015/16 season.

The announcement came as Phoenix also revealed ambitious plans to develop a purpose-built venue in Manchester city centre, although uncertainty remains over where the club will play its home games next season following a dispute with Silver Blades Ice Dome in Altrincham.

Next season will be Archer’s sixth with the Phoenix and Coach Tony Hand will continue to call on the experience offered by his assistant captain.

The Yorkshire born forward collected 26 points last year, despite missing nine weeks through injury, as Phoenix reached the finals of both the British Challenge Cup and the EPL play-offs.

Archer said: “ I know there has been some things flying around about Phoenix since the play-offs but signing for the club was a no-brainer for me. I know what the club, Tony and Neil are all about and had no hesitation coming back. They are a good organisation and look after their players really well. After an injury hit season last year, I am really looking forward to getting ready for the new campaign and cannot wait for September.”

Phoenix coach Tony Hand insists the stability offered by Archer will prove crucial during the upcoming English Premier League campaign.

He said: “ Guys like James will offer stability to our side and that is going to be massively important to us. He is a great powerhouse forward who will work for the puck all night long. These sort of players don’t just wait for the game to come to them. They will get into the corners, dig out the puck and make things happen. I am very pleased James is returning.”

Czech forward Robin Kovar will be back for his third season with the club and has earned the reputation of being one of the best imports in the English Premier Ice Hockey League.

The 31 year old 6ft 1 forward from Valasske in the Czech Republic came to Manchester in season 2013-14 from Slovan Usti nad Labem in the Czech 2nd division. In his two seasons with Phoenix he has scored 168 points in 108 League and play off games. He was also elected to the EPIHL second all star team in Phoenix’s play off winning team in 2013-14.

Kovar said: “ I was so happy to be given an offer by Manchester for next season. I love the city and the organisation. The fans are the best I have ever played for and really wanted to play here again. I had a few offers from other clubs and coaches by text and email but waited for an offer from Manchester as it was the only place I wanted to play.”