Penrith coach Ivan Cleary happy veteran forward Trent Merrin will stay with the Panthers

After turning down a four-year Super League deal, Trent Merrin is determined to prove he can still be an NRL force — and that’s nothing but good news for Penrith coach Ivan Cleary.

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A fired-up Trent Merrin will be an asset to the Panthers in 2019, according to coach Ivan Cleary.

Cleary said he was happy the former Test forward rejected a four-year deal from Leeds — which would’ve effectively ended his NRL career at just 29.

The 204-game veteran has ignored pressure to take up the UK offer, telling Cleary he’s motivated to prove he’s far from a spent force.

Merrin still has plenty to offer Penrith. Picture: Brett Costello

“It’s Trent’s decision on whether he stayed or he didn’t,’’ Cleary said.

“It looked like a pretty good opportunity, but I’m happy he’s still here.

“He provides a lot of experience and from all my discussions with him recently, he’s really motivated which is what you want.

“From his own admission, he feels like he can play better which is fantastic for us.

“A fit and firing Trent Merrin is going to be a huge advantage.’’

Cleary needs this experience in his forward pack. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Merrin has two years remaining on his contract at Penrith and his departure would’ve sapped the club’s forward pack of much-needed experience given the loss of several key forwards in 2019.

Tim Browne (retirement), Tyrone Peachey (Gold Goast) and Corey Harawira-Naera (Bulldogs) have each left the club, while there remains uncertainty over the playing future of prop Sam McKendry, who is attempting to comeback from a third torn ACL.

Tim Grant, who returns to the club after a stint at the Wests Tigers, is the club’s only forward with notable NRL game time.

“We’ve got Timmy Grant adding experience, so Trent he’s the experience too, to compliment and try and stave off these young blokes,’’ Cleary said.

“That’s how roster looks.

“We’ve got a few experienced guys in Trent, Jimmy Tamou, Jimmy Maloney and most of the rest of the roster is coming through the system.

“It won’t be long before all those experienced played are products of the system, which will be good.

“We’ve got a good roster, it’s about getting the best out of them and improving.’’

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