Moses Suli expected to be cleared for his NRL comeback following contract upgrade

FORMER Tiger and Bulldog Moses Suli is set for his NRL return as Manly are poised to upgrade the centre’s contract in a bid to get him on the field this weekend.

Moses Suli’s Manly debut could be blocked by the NRL.

MANLY recruit Moses Suli is today expected to be elevated into the Sea Eagles’ 30-man NRL squad – clearing him to play the Sydney Roosters this weekend.

Suli was named at centre by coach Trent Barrett on Tuesday night after Dylan Walker was shifted into five-eighth for Sunday’s game at Allianz Stadium.

Manly applied to the NRL for an exemption to play Suli as a development player - but their request was denied.

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Moses Suli’s Manly debut could be blocked by the NRL.

The Sea Eagles based their argument around long-term injuries to dedicated centre/wingers Jono Wright, Jorge Taufua and Brad Parker.

NRL officials claim Manly had other options in their existing top-30 squad.

Manly disagreed, claiming the only player available in that position was a youngster called Tevita Funa, just 19-years-old.

Funa is a Jersey Flegg player who hasn’t yet played an Intrust Super game. Manly felt a duty of care to overlook the youngster.

Manly has now decided to take another path to upgrade Suli.

Suli, who left Wests Tigers and Bulldogs under a cloud, will take spot number 29 in the club’s 30-man elite squad.

Suli’s contract must be upgraded to allow him to play against the Roosters.

He must now stay in the squad for the rest of this year.

Manly was in talks with Suli’s manager and the NRL on Wednesday. It is expected to be ratified on Thursday.

Suli’s contract at Canterbury was terminated after turning up late to several training sessions.

Manly’s latest dilemma could open the door for exiled playmaker. Jackson Hastings.

The Sea Eagles have one remaining spot open before the June 30 deadline passes for either a new signing or the promotion of a development player.

Jackson Hastings was chosen in jumper No.19 on an extended Manly bench but it’s unlikely he will play.

It is expected Hastings will drop back and play for feeder club, Blacktown Workers, again this weekend.