Cleary reveals brutal recovery from double leg injury
Nathan Cleary says his injury recovery has been unpredictable and painful, unlike anything he has faced before.
Penrith star Nathan Cleary is working through a slow recovery from breaking his fibula and dislocating his tibia in his left leg during the preliminary final against Newcastle in September. The injury came after he had already broken his foot on his right side earlier in the finals series.
Cleary has undergone multiple surgeries on both legs. One day feels good, the next day brings sharp pain.
He explained that the healing process is unlike previous injuries. He said he has been forced to change his mindset.
He moved from frustration to gratitude for the ability to improve each day. His partner Mary Fowler supported him during his recovery before returning to England.
Cleary hopes to return by Round 1 but said it is too early to confirm.
- Both legs
- Injuries to
- Five weeks after surgery
- Pain duration
- Fibula break and tibia dislocation
- Left leg damage
- Preliminary final vs Newcastle
- Match context
Why it mattersCleary's uncertain return date leaves Penrith without its star playmaker as the new season approaches.
AustraliaPenrith's premiership chances depend heavily on Cleary's recovery timing, as the Panthers prepare for the 2027 NRL season.
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