SWINDON Wildcats netminder Stevie Lyle has been added to the Great Britain squad for this week's Olympic pre-qualifiers in Cortina.

Great Britain take on hosts Italy, along with Netherlands and Serbia, in the four-team group from February 11-14, with the winners progressing to the final qualifying stage.

Nottingham Panthers defenceman Sam Oakford, Belfast Giants forward Mark Garside and Coventry Blaze forward Ross Venus have also been added to the squad to replace netminder Stephen Murphy, defenceman Jonathan Weaver and forwards Matt Haywood and Robert Farmer.

The call-up means 36-year-old Lyle will miss Swindon’s three English Premier League fixtures this weekend.

Aaron Nell’s side travel to table toppers Basingstoke Bison on Friday and second-placed Milton Keynes Lightning the following day before then hosting Basingstoke at the Link Centre on Sunday.

Lyle is a veteran of 38 Great Britain appearances, having made his debut for the team back in the 1995-96 season.

He has not played international ice hockey since the 2012-13 season but was called up to the Great Britain squad last year for their World Championships Division 1 B campaign, where he was an unused squad member.

Great Britain coach Pete Russell said: “It is unfortunate to lose four players, but there’s always a chance that could happen.

“We have depth in British players at the moment and you have to be prepared for this situation.

"Some experienced players and younger players are now getting a chance.

“Stevie Lyle will be one of the most experienced players on the roster, while Mark has lots of experience at this level.

“Sam and Ross are two exciting players and I am delighted all four players accepted last-minute calls-ups.

“I like the look of our squad and we still have quality throughout.”

Wildcats player coach Nell added: “We are all very happy for Stevie with his call-up.

“He is a great goalie and has been nothing short of exceptional this season.

“We all wish him and the rest of the team the best of luck for the upcoming tournament.”

Import forward Tomasz Malasinski will also miss the Cats’ three fixtures this weekend following his selection for the Poland squad for their Olympic qualifiers.