Russians head for Britain

Dynamo are the second Russian team to tour this year

By BBC Sport Online's Stuart Hughes

Three Superleague sides are set to face opposition from one of Russia's top teams over the festive season.

Dynamo Moscow, who are currently third in the Russian league, are bringing their full squad to Britain, including former NHL netminder Mikhail Shtalenkov.

Phil is an experienced role player with a big reputation

Ayr coach
Paul Heavey

The "Blues and Whites" will take on Nottingham Panthers on Boxing Day, Sheffield Steelers the following day and Manchester Storm on Saturday 29 December.

Dynamo Moscow are the second Russian ice hockey team to visit Britain this year after rivals AK Bars Kazan toured at the start of the season.

Meanwhile, Ayr's new signing Phil Crowe will make his debut against London Knights at the Centrum Arena on Saturday.

The right winger, from Nanton, Alberta, made almost 100 appearances in the NHL, icing for LA Kings, Philadelphia Flyers, Ottawa Senators and Nashville Predators.

Ayr coach Paul Heavey said: "Phil is an experienced role player with a big reputation.

"His size and strength will give the squad extra depth for the remainder of the season."