AS THE Gillingham-based Invicta Dynamos ice hockey team prepare for one of their toughest weekends of the season, captain Phil Chard has confirmed a new player will join the team before the January 31 transfer deadline.

The Mos have been searching for a good quality player since the unsuccessful liaison with Samuli Mykkanen in September.

Rumours have been flying about a possible move for Brad Kenny, although club director Jackie Mason has said no talks have taken place.

The news that Luc Chabot has parted company with Peterborough has also raised a few eyebrows. He left on Tuesday because his other commitments conflicted with the club’s desire to up the tempo and push for the title.

This season 24-year-old Kenny scored 50 goals in 28 games for the Isle of Wight Raiders, notching up 41 assists, but was sacked last week due to a breach of disciplinary rules.

Chard said: “I’d definitely be interested in Brad Kenny. He’s scored enough goals against us and is a proven goalscorer. I’m not sure about Chabot, but we will definitely have someone coming in before the deadline.

“We are talking to a few Canadians, new players who have not played in the English National Premier League, and could yet talk to Brad.”

This weekend the Mos go to leaders Milton Keynes and host Swindon. They have never beaten MK Lightning and have fallen to heavy 8-1 defeats at the hands of both sides already this campaign.

Chard, who is suffering with a trapped nerve in his back, said: “These will be two tough games. I’m going to see how I come through training, but will play as long as my back doesn’t swell up.

“We will be looking to repeat our last performance against Milton Keynes, when we drew 4-4, but it will be difficult on their massive ice because they are a great skating side and dangerous up front.”

Swindon tasted defeat at the Ice Bowl in October, but beat the home side 4-3 in the cup in their last visit to Kent.

Chard said: “Historically, we do very well at home against Swindon. I know they beat us last time out, but it was a tight game.”