Keighley Cougars make five signings including former Super League star Junior Sa’u

The recruitment department at Keighley Cougars have been very busy over the last 24 hours, with the Championship club signing five players.

Former New Zealand and Samoa international Junior Sa’u has re-joined the club for the remainder of the season, with the  player open to negotiations to extend the deal into 2024.

The 36-year-old centre returns to Cougar Park after making eight appearances for Keighley last season. He has most recently been playing rugby union in the USA for Old Glory DC, based in Washington.

Sa’u said: “I’ve been in touch with the boys a lot this year and it was always my aim to come back to the UK and play some footy.

“My family and I have enjoyed our time in the States but I can’t wait to get back to Cougar Park to see all the fans.”

World Cup history maker joins Keighley Cougars on loan

Meanwhile, the Cougars announced the two-week laon signings of Huddersfield duo Jack Bibby and Kieran Rush, with a view to review the agreement on a week by week basis.

Half-back Rush made history last year as he became the first player to score points for Jamaica at a Rugby League World Cup.

Prop Bibby, meanwhile, came through the ranks at Wigan before joining Huddersfield on a three-year deal ahead of this season.

Keighley have also signed back-rower Cole Oakley on loan from fellow Championship side Halifax.

Cougars director of rugby Jake Webster added: “When we were alerted to the availability of Cole we jumped at the chance to add him to our squad.”

Leeds starlet heads to Cougar Park

Leeds youngster Luca Atkinson has also joined the Cougars, with the 21-year-old previously earning international honours with England Youth.

Webster added: “We are delighted to secure the services of young Luca for the remainder of the season.

“He is a player for the future and gives us a chance to have a look at good lads from great systems to build on in the coming seasons.

“He comes with good references and we are looking forward to seeing him rip into training.”

Meanwhile, Keighley have announced that former Super League back Ben Crooks has joined Halifax on a deal until the end of the 2023 season.

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