Cleary Closes in on Return After Being Named by Penrith

Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary is one step closer to returning to the NRL after being named in the Panthers' 21-man squad for their clash against the Sydney Roosters on Friday night.

Cleary has been sidelined since suffering a shoulder injury in Penrith's round 16 win over the Newcastle Knights.

The 23-year-old has been in a race against time to be fit for the finals, and his inclusion in the squad is a major boost for the Panthers.

Cleary is expected to come off the bench against the Roosters, with Jarome Luai set to start at halfback.

However, Cleary is likely to play a significant role in the match, and his return will be a major boost for the Panthers' premiership hopes.