LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
'He'll be lacing up his boots': No mind games as Panthers bigwig declares Nathan Cleary a certain starter in the grand final
Nathan Cleary was taken off as a precaution in the closing minutes of the preliminary final victory over Cronulla, clutching at his shoulder.
According to news.com.au, Panthers chief executive Brian Fletcher left no room for doubt, stating that star halfback Nathan Cleary "will be playing" in Sunday's grand final despite picking up "a little bruise on the shoulder" on Saturday.
After making a crucial try-saving tackle on Kayal Iro, Cleary was seen clutching his shoulder and was taken off as a precaution in the closing minutes of the game.
The talented playmaker missed three weeks due to a left shoulder injury sustained against the Storm in round 24, but has been in top form during the finals, assisting in three tries and kicking a crucial 40/20 in the win over the Sharks.
Cleary confirmed his fitness post-game by moving his shoulder around and reassured fans that he will be ready to lead Penrith's charge for a fourth consecutive title.
"Nathan Cleary will be playing, no doubts about that," Fletcher confidently stated on SEN Radio on Monday morning.
"He's just got a little bruise on his shoulder, but other than that, he'll be right as rain."