Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has left the door open for star centre Jamal Idris to make his NRL comeback on Sunday against the Warriors.

Idris has been named in the Panthers NSW Cup side but, with the reserve grade match to precede the main game at Mt Smart Stadium, Cleary is able to leave his decision up to the last minute.

The 23-year-old has been missing in action from first grade for six weeks after personal troubles came to light during the club’s bye week in round 11 – with Idris given a leave of absence from his duties.

Idris made a strong return against North Sydney in the NSW Cup last Sunday, getting 80 minutes of match fitness under his belt.

But while Cleary is happy with his progress on and off the field, he insists he won’t be rushing one of his biggest strike weapons back for the sake of winning a football game.

“It’s something we’re monitoring each day as we go along,” said Cleary on Thursday ahead of his team’s departure to Auckland.

“He’ll definitely play in one of the grades this week but we don’t want to rush him, that’s for sure. It’s more than just football we’re talking here.

“Jamal’s coming along ok. There’s obviously been a bit of a process going on there and he’s working through it.

“… he’s just getting things rolling again. There’s a few things that go with that, outside of football as well. But he’s making good process.”

Should Idris earn a recall, Isaah Yeo or Kevin Naiqama would make way.

Cleary admits Sunday’s clash holds extra significance for him, given his long association with the Warriors as coach and player.

Last year in his first season with the Panthers, Cleary twice conquered the Warriors and he’s eager to keep that perfect record going.

Cleary says the match will also be an emotional one for his unflappable forward Elijah Taylor, who left his junior club the Warriors this season to join his coach.

It’s a big road trip for the Panthers, who are equal first on the ladder and eager to maintain their momentum after last week’s bye.