SWINDON Wildcats netminder Stevie Lyle has been included in Great Britain's final 23-man squad for next month's World Championship in Eindhoven and two international fixtures against Poland.

Great Britain coach Pete Russell named Lyle in his initial squad but has now included him in the final party with Belfast netminder, Stephen Murphy not risked because of injury.

Lyle, who made 38 appearances before ending his internation stint two years ago, will contest netminding duties with Cardiff’s Ben Bowns, while Telford’s championship-winning goalie Tom Murdy will travel with the team as the emergency netminder.

Former Wildcats defenceman Paul Swindlehurst and Swindon-born Mark Richardson are also included.

“Since Christmas, we have watched a lot of hockey and evaluated all our available options but, more importantly, searched for the right players who we believe fit into our playing philosophy and identity,'' said Russell.

“When taking on the role of head coach, I stated my goal to implement a new identity of play and to select players who fit into each role to make our group more balanced and complete as a unit.

“I believe we have done this and we have selected the right individuals for this period of the process.

"We have players returning with good international experience and we have some new blood coming into the fold as well, which is exciting.”

GB will play two games against Poland next month as part of the training camp.

The two sides meet at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham on Thursday, April 9 and in Coventry's Skydome on Friday, April 10.