Whare to make NRL return for Panthers

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has confirmed centre Dean Whare will return from injury for the side's last game of the year against Newcastle.

The Kiwi international has missed the past five weeks with a broken thumb, but will now be a welcome boost for a Panthers side with 10 first-choice players sidelined with injury.

Rookies Chris Smith and Sione Katoa are also set to be handed NRL debuts.