KEIGHLEY Cougars have had a frantic start to the week, announcing the signing of Izaac Farrell from Sheffield Eagles on a two-year deal, while also confirming the exits of eight players, including captain Ellis Robson.

Sheffield confirmed that 26-year-old half back Farrell, who initially joined the South Yorkshire side in 2020, would be leaving them at the end of this season last month.

Keighley were immediately tipped as favourites to sign him, given he spent two games on loan at Cougar Park earlier this season.

Cougars head coach Jake Webster was delighted to bring Farrell back into the fold, saying: “Izaac was a great asset for us earlier this season.

“When I learnt there was a mutual desire to work together again, I jumped at the chance to secure his signature on a more permanent basis.

“He's with us for a couple of years and adds competition in the halves."

Farrell should fill the hole vacated by the experienced Oscar Thomas, the half back one of the eight players that will be leaving Keighley when their contract expires next month.

Cougars said that following a review of their 2025 playing group, they were unable to offer the former Bradford Bulls man terms for next year.

Oscar Thomas celebrating a try for Cougars earlier this season at Newcastle Thunder.Oscar Thomas celebrating a try for Cougars earlier this season at Newcastle Thunder. (Image: Ben Challis Sports Photography.)

As for second row and skipper Robson, his contract for next season was dependent on Cougars being in the Championship.

But with Keighley losing the play-off final to Hunslet, that has not come to pass, and after reviewing their budget, Cougars declared themselves unable to offer Robson new terms.

Centre Charlie Graham has departed after securing a deal with a Championship side for 2025, while winger Ben Blackmore has retired to focus on his work commitments.

Blackmore is joined in that camp by Will Maher, the prop leaving Cougar Park after securing a job at a school in Castleford.

Hookers Alex Bishop and Kyle Kesik have both requested releases from their pre-agreed contracts for 2025, the former admitting he could not commit to that given his commute from Cumbria to Keighley.

Kesik’s departure comes after a lengthy five-year spell at Cougar Park.

Finally, back row Mitch Revell has left Keighley to return to Villeneuve in France and continue his career in the French Elite leagues.

This is with a view to returning to his native Australia in the future.