Penrith star Nathan Cleary admits it would “probably be perfect” for dad Ivan to return to the club, but won’t be pushing the issue at the dinner table any time soon.
Ivan continues to be linked with what would be a sensational comeback to the Panthers after being sacked from the club just three years ago.
And while Ivan has re-iterated his intention to serve his contract at Wests Tigers, he has declined to answer questions over informing the Tigers of a recent discussion with Penrith.
Nathan has spoken openly about the criticism he and his family have copped over the saga, however said he and his dad were “lucky” to be wanted in the NRL.
Off-contract at the end of 2019, Nathan is open to fielding offers from rival clubs in November and is all but certain to be pursued by the Tigers.
“It could be worse, could be two years ago when he didn’t have a job,” Nathan said on Monday.
“If we’re going to use that as a negative, I’m glad that’s the negative in our lives and not other things. We are really lucky and we can’t take this opportunity for granted.”
Despite being a week out from the finals, the Panthers are on the search for a new coach after the shock sacking of Anthony Griffin three weeks ago.
The development prompted speculation of Ivan’s return either next season or when his contract expires at the end of the 2020 season.
Penrith have previously indicated a willingness to wait for Ivan to finish his current Tigers deal.
Pressed on whether he would ask his dad to come to the Panthers, Nathan said: “No, not at all. I’m happy with how it is at the moment.
“It would be nice for one day to link up with dad, but I’ve said that all along.
“If it was to happen here, it’d probably be perfect. But who knows.”
While the Panthers are on the hunt for a new long-term coach, the NRL side is also looking for answers to a form slump that threatens to cut short their finals run.
Their heavy loss to the Warriors last week was compounded by injuries to Dean Whare (arm) and Wayde Egan (knee), while Tyrone Peachey (knee) failed to train on Monday.
Corey Harawira-Naera sat out due to concussion, however veteran James Maloney is set to come back from his own knee injury after training with the team.
“He’s looking good out there. It’s the best he’s looked in a while so I’m looking forward to having him back out there and hopefully playing some good footy,” Cleary said.
