Penrith Panthers legend and premiership-winning halfback Greg Alexander believes Nathan Cleary’s performance against South Sydney last weekend is as good as he has ever seen from a playmaker.

Cleary is on his way back from injury and could be the difference as the Panthers press for their first premiership since 2003.

“Nathan touched the ball 80 times on Friday night, to give you an indication of how much other halves touch the ball it’s about 50 times,” Alexander told SEN.

“Cameron Munster who dominated the second half on Thursday against the Titans had just 46 touches. He did share the ball with Nicho Hynes but Nathan touched the ball 80 times which is incredible

“He had 24 kicks, he forced two dropouts, he had 13 runs of the ball, he made 20 tackles with no misses. That’s from a guy that has got his right shoulder plastered together with sticky tape. It’s just incredible, it’s good as I’ve seen this year and for a very long time.

“He’s the key to Penrith winning the comp – his effort was a standout.”