KEIGHLEY MP John Grogan has called on Austria Holdings to relinquish control of Keighley Cougars.

It comes followed the continued non-payment of staff and players' wages dating back to August.

Yesterday was the latest in a series of missed deadlines, which has left the club in turmoil and seen head coach Craig Lingard resign in protest.

Following a meeting with Rugby Football League chief executive Ralph Rimmer at the House of Commons last night, Grogan said: "I was advised that the Rugby Football League have now placed Keighley Cougars into special measures which means they cannot sign any new players.

"I received assurances that Keighley Cougars were still very much a member of the Rugby Football League and would be part of next season’s fixtures to be announced on Monday.

"I contacted the club on Tuesday morning and said that I think it is now time that Austria Holdings relinquish control of the club and stand aside.

"Paying the wages on time is a basic responsibility of any business. Keighley Cougars are a crucial part of Keighley’s identity and sporting life and every effort must be made to give them a fresh lease of life."

The RFL also released a statement last night regarding the crisis.

It read: "The RFL is concerned about and monitoring the situation at Keighley.

"We have been given assurances that the players will be paid this week. If that does not happen, that would clearly be another cause for serious concern.

"The club remains in special measures and therefore not permitted to contact or register any players with the RFL. We are also seeking clarity over its governance."