Cleary vows return after ankle surgery ends Penrith season

Nathan Cleary has told supporters "I'll be back" in a social media post from his hospital bed after undergoing emergency surgery on a serious ankle injury, according to Guardian Rugby League.

The Penrith halfback was rushed to hospital during the club's 22-14 loss to Newcastle on Sunday, a result that ended the Panthers' season.

Cleary suffered a compound fracture and an ankle dislocation in the match, an injury description that underlines the severity of the incident and the reason for his immediate transfer to hospital.

He has since confirmed that the surgery was successful, sharing the update himself from his hospital bed rather than through a club statement.

In the same post, Cleary made a point of clearing Newcastle's Phoenix Crossland of any blame for the tackle that caused the injury, according to Guardian Rugby League.

The injury brings a premature and painful end to Penrith's campaign, with their No 7 now facing a recovery period after surgery rather than any further involvement this season.

No further detail on a return timeline has been provided, with Cleary's own message the only word so far on his prognosis beyond the confirmation that the operation went ahead successfully.

Penrith's immediate focus now shifts to the off-season, with Cleary's recovery from surgery set to be the most closely watched story around the club until he is able to provide a further update on his fitness.