Milton Keynes Lightning have struck a Czech double with the acquisition of big defenceman Lukas Zatopek and the re-signing of popular forward Ales Parez.

Newcomer Zatopek, 30, comes to this country from the German Oberliga where he played for ESC Halle 04. At 6ft 3in and 14st 11lbs he will add size and weight to the Lightning backline.

Previously he saw service with DHK Latgale in the Latvian League – the same team as former Lightning defenceman Mindy Kieras played for last season.

Lightning player coach Nick Poole said: "He comes to us with very high recommendations and we are thrilled to have him patrolling our blue line this coming season."

He added that on both his last two teams he was the highest scoring defender.

"Lukas, along with James Pease, brings an element to our side that we have been lacking over the last couple of seasons. We have added a lot of size to our team at the back without sacrificing any skill. I am hoping that Lukas will have a huge impact on our league and will be one of the dominant defenders."

Meanwhile Poole described the recruitment of Parez as a 'massive signing'.

"He brings a very high skill level and also size and strength to our side. Al is a very deceptive player and for a big lad he has a fantastic touch that can play in all situations. He has great composure on the puck and is a very difficult player to play against.

"I believe he will be even better next season as he now fully understands what our league is about and how he can be best effective."

Parez scored 54 points in 31 games in a season interrupted by injury – he missed seven weeks with a separated shoulder.

One player not returning Lightning next year will be Daniel Croft who has opted instead to return to his home town side, Telford Tigers, after the club secured a sponsorship deal which has enabled coach Claude Dumas to significantly strengthen the roster.