Keighley Cougars have announce that Head Coach Rhys Lovegrove has signed a new deal with the club.

Lovegrove, who took charge in June 2019, has penned a two-year contract that will see the former Scotland international remain in charge until the end of the 2024 season.

Keighley chairman Mick O’Neill MBE gave his views on Lovegrove staying at the club.

“I am absolutely delighted that Rhys has accepted our offer to remain as our coach for the next two years,” said O’Neill.

“To be undefeated and top of the division after fifteen games is better than anyone, myself included, could have ever imagined.

“Rhys has built something special on the field with a great group of lads who have a fantastic spirt and team ethic and will work together to get the win.

“Myself, and my fellow directors, are delighted with the work and coaching style that Rhys has brought to Cougar Park over the last 3 years.

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“With the news of the stand development off the field earlier in the week, we felt it was important to bring some stability on it as well.

“And with Rhys signing his new deal, things are continuing to build and looking exciting for the future here at the Cougars.”

Lovegrove added: “Staying at Keighley was a no-brainer for me.

“The O’Neill family gave me the opportunity to begin my coaching career and the time to implement my brand of Rugby League even though it is against the norm and the mainstream.

“That time and that trust that they have given me means more than anything.

“I want to continue my journey with the club, and I’m really excited about the future and the way things are progressing.

“I am really thankful to the club for putting their trust and belief with me these past three years and will continue to do so for the next two.”

Initially joining the Cougars as Assistant Coach ahead of the 2019 season, Rhys would be appointed Head Coach following a spell as caretaker after the departure of Craig Lingard.

Keighley currently are sitting top of Betfred League 1 with five games remaining, the side have won all 15 games to date so far in the league campaign.