Hookey becomes a Panther

Penrith has given Lee Hookey an opportunity to resurrect his NRL career, offering the former South Sydney prodigy a one-year contract.

The speedy three-quarter, who has scored 44 tries in a 109-game career with the Rabbitohs and St George Illawarra, was off contract after making just 11 first-grade appearances for the Rabbitohs in 2005.

Penrith coach John Lang says Hookey will bring some much-needed experience to the Panthers' outside backs next year.