Brighton Bears have signed 39-times capped England international Yorick Williams.

The 28-year-old from Manchester goes straight into Bears' squad for tomorrow's crucial league clash with Chester Jets at the Triangle.

He replaces Phil Perre, who has been released after just five games for the club.

Williams, who has played for Manchester, Birmingham, Derby, Essex Leopards and top Greek side Aris Thessalonika in a colourful career, has been offered a short term deal.

Bears owner and coach Nick Nurse was not willing to reveal the exact length of the contract but he will be looking for Williams, a slightly built but athletic 6ft 4ins guard, to help his side's ULEB Cup campaign.

Nurse said: "There is no question Yorick has got tons of talent but it remains to be seen whether he will fit in with this team.

"I'm excited about having him but it's also a touch and go situation because he can be a flamboyant character."

Nurse felt Perre was not getting enough playing time to progress with Bears but said: "In the end he was starting to improve and he needs to go some place where he gets significant minutes."

Sullivan Phillips, who missed both games last weekend with a sprained wrist, trained yesterday and could be fit for the Chester game but Nurse has again dismissed speculation linking Sterling Davis with a return to the club.