HEAD coach Stevie Lyle is backing Adam Harding to help sharpen the Swindon Wildcats’ claws next season.

Lyle is aiming for his Wildcats team to be a tougher nut to crack next term and reckons that he has a willing combatant at his disposal in the form of forward Harding, who has fully committed to Swindon for the 2015-2016 campaign.

The Welshman came through the Cardiff Devils’ youth system and despite featuring at the Link Centre for the past two seasons, the forward had been dual-registered on a two-way deal.

But the 22-year-old will be a full Wildcats asset during the 2015/2016 campaign and Lyle is confident that Harding, as well as new signing Neil Liddiard, who returned to the club this week from the Guildford Flames, will bolster Swindon’s team toughness.

“I think we’re going to be a tougher team next season,” said the Wildcats player-coach.

“There were times last season when our offensive players were targeted. We need to be a little bit tougher and I think Adam will help because he’s not scared to drop the gloves.

“That’s also why I was so happy to bring in Neil Liddiard, because he’s a tough guy that will also help us.

“It really helps when you go to places and you’re not being bullied out of the rink.”

Former Great Britain U20 man Harding racked up 14 goals and 28 assists in 48 appearances for Swindon last season.

Lyle added: “I think Adam had his best season to date for us last time.

“He’s excited to be back.

“He’s committed to Swindon 100 per cent this year and he thinks that’s the best thing for him. “I’m really happy to have him in the team.”

Harding said: “It’s great to be back again for a third season.

“I really enjoyed last season, we had a great bunch of guys and there was a great atmosphere around the locker room.”