North Queensland's Lachlan Coote has stated he'd like to remain in Townsville as he aims to finish off the year strong in what has been a horrid 2018 campaign for the Cowboys.
The off-contract fullback has just eight more games in the season to impress the Cowboys and show he is worthy of securing a new deal.
Coote seems to be at a loss with coach Paul Green, who midseason opted for Michael Morgan at fullback in favour of Coote, pushing him down to reserve grade.
A season ending bicep injury to Morgan saw Coote retain his first grade position, although the 28-year old's future still remaining unclear.
Coote is still optimistic he's playing career at the Cowboys is not done yet, as he declared staying in Townsville with his young family is preferred.
“My intentions have always been to stay here at this club,” Coote told the Townsville Bulletin.
“There’s been a little bit of chat (contract negotiations), but I think I’ve just got to go out there and do my best for the Cowboys and let the management and my football take care of that.
“It has been pretty disappointing for myself being in and out of first grade — that’s something I didn’t have in my mindset at the start of the year — but that’s footy, I guess."
Coote stayed loyal to the Cowboys in 2016 after turning his back on a reported $1.8 million dollar deal with the Sydney Roosters.
If North Queensland hang on to Coote, he would likely have to take a pay cut with rumours suggesting the Cowboys are chasing Sharks winger Valentine Holmes, but Coote is adamant he's not discouraged by the rumours.
“I can’t really be worrying about that. If I’m worried about that then I’m in the wrong headspace,” Coote added.
“If that’s the case (taking a pay cut) then I’ve been in that situation before in the last negotiation so they know how I feel about the club.”
The Cowboys will be aiming to play some of their best footy at the back end of the season in a bid to farewell legend Johnathon Thurston on a high note.