PANTHERS coach Corey Nielson is in no doubt that Matthew Myers deserves his shot in the North American minor leagues with Bakersfield.

"Sure, I'm selfish and would like to keep him, but if Matthew makes it over there, it looks good for us," said Neilson (pictured).

"He deserves this chance. When he gave up his full-time job, we put a lot of time into making him a better player and we have every confidence in him.

"He worked hard on and off the ice, with video sessions etc to turn him into the player he is today.

"We outlined his role, his strengths and weaknesses and if he follows that he will be a success.

"We are a team that wants Brits to succeed and if we take them on to bigger and better things, then it gives us a lot of kudos."