Former Parramatta junior Manase Fainu, who is on a development contract with Manly, was this week knocked back by the NRL from his debut in place of the injured Apisai Koroisau, sidelined for 10 weeks.
Manly coach Trent Barrett has actively disputed the NRL's rule regarding the promotion of development players into first-grade, vowing to knock on their door every week seeking dispensation and a chance to play for Fainu.
Barrett used the post-match press conference following the Eagles' 32-8 loss to the Dragons to question why development players like Fainu are denied from the NRL, advocating for the young rookie's debut.
"It's going to be extremely difficult for us to make the semi-finals," Barrett told NRL.com.
"I'd love to be able to give the 19-year-old kid, who is a genuine first grader, 11-12 weeks of first grade and lead him into a pre-season next year but we have been denied that.
"If we haven't let some of these guys go we can't sign a player for next year at all. It has put us in a spot but I would like to see the kid get a go."
Centre Matt Wright and halfback Trent Hodkinson were forced to share the dummy-half duties on Saturday's game.
"Matty Wright did an outstanding job there in difficult circumstances and Hodko did a good job but I just question the whole idea behind six development players," Barrett added.
Jackson Hastings' possible departure from the Eagles to join the Super League would allow for Fainu to be signed to Manly's top 30, freeing one hooking option.
"If that does eventuate it would open a spot for Manase to come in, - if it doesn't, I will be sitting here every Monday applying for the same dispensation for him."