Cleary prepares for more surgery as brother signs on
Penrith have finally confirmed the signing of young halfback Jett Cleary, while his older brother Nathan prepares for a third bout of surgery.
The 29-year-old superstar broke his fibula and dislocated his tibia during Penrith’s preliminary final against Newcastle, which led to emergency surgery.
Nathan Cleary arrives at Accor Stadium. NRL Images
Cleary then had another surgery weeks later on his right foot, which he had broken earlier in the NRL finals series, but took the field with anyway.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the halfback will now have tightrope surgery on his left ankle as he prepares to try and put weight on the leg.
News of further surgery comes after his management rejected an offer from the PNG Chiefs, with Cleary expected to extend with the Panthers until 2029.
The four-time premiership winner will likely partner his brother Jett during that extension after the Panthers confirmed his return on a two-year deal.
The younger Cleary had been granted a release from the Warriors to join his brother and father, Ivan, with the latter set to finish at the Panthers next year.
“We’re excited to have Jett return to the club,” general manager Shane Elford said.
“He’s a talented young halfback who came through our pathways, and it’s been pleasing to see him continue his development and earn his NRL debut.
“He returns with valuable experience and a strong connection to Panthers. We look forward to seeing him build on that progress and take the next step in his career here.”
Jett made his NRL debut for the Warriors last season in round 26 when he recorded three try assists.
He could shape as Penrith’s missing man at five-eighth with Blaize Talagi struggling for form and injurying his Achilles in the preliminary final.
Jack Cole plaeyd at No. 6 throughout last season too but has joined the Perth Bears, while utility Jack Cogger could also play in the halves.
