SCRUM-half Neil Chivers,who played a crucial role in the National One survival of Rotherham Titans last season, has agreed to return to Clifton Lane and is expected to sign another new contract.
Chivers is currently on a Sevens tour in Kenya, but has been in touch with coach Craig West who is confident his No 1 scrum half will accept the terms of his new deal within the next few days.
"Neil improved a lot last season and his tackling in t
he important games against Newbury and Exeter made a big difference to the results", said West who is still on the look-out for another six players to add to those who have been recruited or have re-signed from last season.
"I am keen to bring another half a dozen new faces - four backs and two front row forwards.
"I'm delighted that we have retained the majority of the first team squad and I'm delighted with the players we have brought in, such as hooker Ross Batty from Newcastle Falcons, prop Janie du Toit from Plymouth and Namibia, Adam Kleeberger, a Canadian international flanker, and Scotland A back-row forward Steve Swindall. We have also strengthened our back line.
He added: "The player-deal we have arranged with Leeds Carnegie which brings in winger/centre Luther Burrell and forwards James Craig and Phil Swainston is a step in the right direction.
"It gives theose players the opportunity to play competitive rugby in The Championship.".
Several of the Rotherham Titans squad reported back for the start of pre-season training on Saturday and will be advised on their fitness levels by an expert from Sheffield Hallam University's sports science department who will supervise the squad throughout the season and be present on match days.
The Titans have already arranged a pre-season game against Premiership club Northampton Saints at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday, August 22.
West is also hoping that Rotherham can also play a senior Welsh club before the new Championship campaign begins at Coventry on September 5.
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