SWINDON Wildcats head coach Aaron Nell is less than convinced by the new rule that increases the number of imports English Premier League clubs can ice next season.

As part of a new ruling from the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA), clubs in English ice hockey’s second tier can ice five imports per game in 2016-17 instead of four.

The rule change, which was voted on by club owners, also states that teams must still ensure that a minimum of three UK-trained players are on the ice at all times.

Cats boss Nell is sceptical of the change and is not sure the move is the best thing for the development of young British players.

“I think it is maybe what is needed but it’s obviously not right - it would be better if it was four imports,” said the Cats coach.

“Having five imports will help the teams at the bottom end of the league because there aren’t many British players out there right now, so it will help them and hopefully it can make the league a little bit more entertaining and better to watch.

“It makes it a little bit easier recruitment-wise but again, I don’t think it is the right way to go as a league.

“A lot of players left the league this year but we have to start using the young players a lot more.”

The rule change was announced in a statement from EIHA chairman Ken Taggart yesterday, who said: “This is a move, by the team owners, to ensure the EPIHL retains its place as a high-quality, yet viable top tier of English Ice Hockey.

“I am determined that youth development will remain a key part of this league’s remit.

“That’s why I have stipulated that teams must still have a minimum of three UK-trained players on the ice at all times.”