Influential Belfast Giants goalie Mike Bales is heading to Russia this week with a view to moving to play there next season.

The former NHL backstop, who posted the best statistics in the Superleague this season, is trying out with Amur Tigers Khabarovsk.

After that he will be icing in two exhibition games against the Japanese national squad.

"It came right out of the blue a couple of days ago," Bales confessed. "My agent, Gary Seigo, asked if I'd be interested in going out there.

"I've talked to guys who have played there but you have to experience it for yourself."

Bales added: "Both my wife Melanie and I have loved our time in Belfast and I'd like to come back.

"But I have to explore other avenues and this will give me a chance to see if I'd like it over there."

Belfast coach Dave Whistle said he was supportive of the move, even if it ultimately meant him losing his franchise player.

Possible return

"It's a good opportunity for him to test the water," Whistle said.

"It will also will give him the chance to show what he can do.

"Scouts and agents from all over the place will be there watching him in action and he will have the chance to showcase his talents.

"There's no question about me wanting him back in a Giants jersey next season but I have to be realistic.

"I know he wants to play at a higher level and he's at the age where he needs to earn the big money while he can."

Whistle also said he hoped Bales could play a part in luring new players to Northern Ireland in the future.

"Whether he moves on or not he'll be a great help in recruiting new players," he remarked.

"He's played with a lot of big names and he has nothing but good things to say about the Giants, Belfast and Northern Ireland."

Belfast have been the focus of intense interest among scouts looking to recruit players to the cash-rich DEL in Germany.

Belfast coach Dave Whistle, however, is confident of attracting quality signings to the Odyssey Arena next season following rule changes in North America and the prospect of at least two DEL teams going out of business.