Cougars boss Gary Moorby is confident the club will retain the services of star centre Matt Foster for next season. Foster topped the try-scoring charts in National League One despite the Cougars winning just one match and as such is one of the hottest properties in the game below Super League.

He currently works full time at the club as a development officer and Moorby is confident that commitment will keep him at Cougar Park.

"I've spoken to Matt and while he hasn't signed yet it is looking quite promising," said Moorby.

Foster is believed to be keen to continue playing in National League One but Moorby is hopeful he will choose to stick with the club.

"I'm fairly confident he'll be playing for Keighley Cougars next season. At the end of the day Matt is a full-time employee of the club.

"The way I see it, outside of Super League and maybe the top four clubs in National League One, the standard is about the same.

"It's about where you are going to enjoy playing your footy," added Moorby.

"Matt has won a Grand Final winner's medal with us and there are not too many clubs where he could have done that,"

Moorby has been busy putting together a squad for next season and has already re-signed forwards Phil Stephenson, Chris Parker and Matt Steele along with scrum half Matti Firth and wing Andy Robinson.

"The signs are that most of the squad will re-sign," said Moorby.

"It is looking quite promising for next year.

"I've had talks with four new players as well and thing are progressing well.

"I've always said if we can keep the nucleus of the squad, bring some young players through and add some experience then we'll be all right."

Moorby also paid tribute to departing hooker Simeon Hoyle and prop Danny Ekis, who are heading to Australia.

"I consider those two as my players because I brought them to the club after they played for me at Halifax.

"Wearing my coaching hat, I am disappointed to see them go but as a friend I wish them all they best.

"They have both done a great job for the club.

"They are single guys and they have the chance to sample life in Australia and play some rugby league as well, so who can blame them?"