In-demand Lachlan Coote stays with Cowboys in NRL

Coote, 26, is in his third season with the Cowboys but was reportedly a target for the likes of the Sydney Roosters, South Sydney Rabbitohs and St George Illawarra Dragons.

But he extended his stay with North Queensland on Wednesday, signing a deal through until the end of the 2018 season.

"I'm extremely pleased to remain a Cowboy," Coote said.

"I've had a memorable time here so far; we won the premiership last year; and I just love playing with these boys.

"Greeny [head coach Paul Green] and the coaching staff have played a big role in helping me improve my game, and they were all tremendous after a tough first year at the club."

Coote was with the Penrith Panthers before joining the Cowboys ahead of the 2014 season, only for a knee injury to ruin his year.

But he has played 33 games for the Cowboys in two seasons since and had a key role in their NRL premiership win.

Coach Green was full of praise for Coote, saying: "He's been really good for us, both last season and to start 2016.

"His positional play at full-back is second-to-none and he gives us a genuine attacking option alongside our halves. I know his team-mates love playing beside him and he's a pleasure to coach."

Coote has crossed for one try in seven games this season, with the Cowboys second in the table with six wins from eight.