Keighley Cougars player-coach Jason Demetriou has been delighted with how his squad has shaped up – now he has urged them to fulfil their potential in 2012.

Demetriou enjoyed a remarkable first season in charge at Cougar Park, guiding his men to promotion at the first attempt with a stunning victory over Workington in the Co-operative Championship One play-off final.

He has since made a number of notable signings, recruiting ex-Super League stars Michael Korkidas, Paul March and Richie Barnett and bringing Danny Jones back to the club.

Demetriou said: “I’m very happy with the squad how things stand and there is a bit of a buzz around the town after winning promotion and having signed some very good players.

“But I’ve told the players that it doesn’t mean anything unless they go out next season and perform.

“The right attitude starts during pre-season and, to be fair, the boys have hit the ground running so far.

“Pre-season is about putting in the hard work and, over the next six to eight weeks, that’s what they’ve got to do.

“The lads are very optimistic about next season but names on paper don’t win games – it’s about hard work and preparing the right way.”

Meanwhile, Demetriou is waiting to hear from another former Super League star he has been speaking to about a potential move to Cougar Park.

Demetriou is keen to keep the player’s identity under wraps but added: “Signing this guy would be a massive statement of intent for the club and I’m expecting an answer either way very soon.”

Half-back Jy-mel Coleman, pivotal alongside Demetriou in the play-off final win over Workington, is training with the club and set to sign a new deal.

Prop Brendon Rawlins is waiting on a visa and should also be part of next season’s squad, while Jake Normington’s dual registration from Leeds Rhinos has also been agreed.

Demetriou, meanwhile, has urged fans to take advantage of the club’s season-ticket offer for the 2012 campaign, which runs until November 30.

He added: “I want supporters to come down in their droves and really get behind the team next season.

“I’ve been contacting fans myself on the phone, urging them to buy a season ticket because the more people we have backing us next year the better.”

Contact 01535-606044 for details.