Panthers impacted by COVID-19

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Penrith have become the latest club to feel the impacts of the COVID-19 Omicron outbreak, with the club confirming a "significant number" of players and staff won't return to training this week.

The club released a statement on Wednesday afternoon:

Penrith Panthers can confirm a significant number of the club's NRL players and staff are currently self-isolating and will not be available for the recommencement of pre-season training this week.

The affected players and staff have either tested positive for COVID-19 or been identified as a close contact of a positive case.

These individuals will only return to training after receiving clearance in accordance with NRL and NSW Government protocols.

The club respects the privacy of the affected players and staff, and will be making no further comment on the matter at this time.

Penrith are first set to take the field in the pre-season on Sunday 20 February, when they play Cronulla as part of a double header at Commbank Stadium in Parramatta.

They meet the Eels at Bluebet Stadium the following Saturday before kicking off the 2022 NRL season against Manly at home on March 10.