Panthers re-sign Coote

Penrith have received a boost on the eve on their match with Cronulla with local junior Lachlan Coote signing a new deal with the club that will see him remain at the Panthers until the end of the 2014 season.

Coote, 20, has enjoyed a great season at full-back, but his finals campaign remains in doubt as he is suffering from osteitis pubis.

Since making his debut in 2008 Coote has played 36 first-grade matches for the Panthers and he was delighted to put pen to paper on a new deal.

"I'm stoked to have been able to wrap up my long-term future," Coote said.

"I'm a local junior and that's a big factor in why I've stayed, the Panthers have been a big part of my footy career growing up and I wanted to stay as long as I can."

Panthers CEO Michael Leary added: "Lachlan is an outstanding player from our Junior League; it's particularly pleasing to produce and retain the calibre of talent that Coote offers."

"I'm sure Lachlan is disappointed to be injured but we are hopeful he will rejoin the team shortly."