Phillips fears the worst over knee injury

The 28-year-old forward was forced off after clattering into a goalpost with it being confirmed yesterday that he has damaged a medial collateral ligament in his knee.

He is expected to see a specialist on Wednesday to discuss the best course of action, but he could be out until Christmas.

With eight goals and six assists in 14 games, the loss of Phillips will be a serious one for player-coach Ben Simon's team.

"It's not good – we've just got to find out how bad it actually is now, but I fear the worst," said Phillips.

"My last big injurywas when I was at Cardiff when I had a broken ankle so it's been a long time."

While any injury sustained by an athlete is a case of bad timing, it is particluarly true for Phillips who, after a disappointing 2009-10 season, has come out of the blocks flying under new player-coach Ben Simon.

With 14 points from as many games, including eight goals, the Welshman has been one of the Steelers' most influential players, something Phillips admits makes his bad luck all the more frustrating.

"I'm obviously happy to be scoring points," he said.

"I think I'm the type of player that - for whatever reason - can have a really good season in terms of points and then not so the following year.

"I think I've got a bit more confidence, as has the team, and I've been enjoying my hockey."

While Phillips's injury will leave Simon with a big hole to fill, the American has received good news with regard to another of his injured forwards, Rob Globke, who is expected to return for Saturday's Challenge Cup tie at Sheffield Arena after missing four games due to the concussion he sustained in the 4-1 victory at Nottingham Panthers.

Fellow forward Derek Campbell - suspended for four games - will also return on Saturday to face the club he iced for last season.

"I've been very happy with Rob's progress" said Simon.

"He has told me he is ready for Coventry and that is good enough for me. Welcoming both Rob and Derek back into the line-up is a major boost and will add an edge to the game."