Braehead Clan defender Zach Sullivan is honoured to have been picked for the Great Britain squad for their two games against Norway next week.

The 22-year-old received his first call-up to the national team by Head Coach Pete Russell as they take on Norway next Tuesday and Wednesday.

Sullivan is hoping to make an impression as he eyes up the World Championships in Belfast at the end of the season.

“It’s a real honour, especially looking at some of the names included on that list of well respected Elite League players, it’s an exciting prospect,” he said.

“You always want to make the GB team, but being on home ice this year in Belfast makes it that bit more special.

“I’ve been working to this all my career so far and hopefully I can continue to impress enough that I’m considered for selection for the World Championships at the end of the year.

“You would have the crowd behind you and it will be even more awesome for the players that are picked.”

Russell selected a total of 43 players for the two games, splitting the squad to give players a chance over the two matches at Nottingham’s National Ice Centre and Ice Arena Wales in Cardiff.

Sullivan and teammate Craig Peacock will be part of Tuesday’s game in Nottingham, while Matt Haywood gets a chance in Wednesday’s match in South Wales.

“Having Peaks in the same squad means I have someone who can keep me right about what’s expected and it’s a helper for me that he’ll be there to guide me,” added Sullivan.

“Some of the guys that are in the squad are players I’ve played against, so it will be nice to be on the same team as them for a change.

“Norway are one of the top nations in the world, so it will be a huge challenge that I’m looking forward to.

“Everyone will be up for it and we’ll give it our best shot – I’m sure it will be a good game.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)