Parramatta coach Brad Arthur admits he's uncertain what the future holds for veteran back-rower Richie Fa'aoso after the NRL decided not to register his contract.
Fa'aoso, 30, was forced into retirement after breaking his neck when playing for Manly in 2013 but he was medically cleared to play again following surgery and signed a one-year deal with the Eels in October.
However, the NRL last week refused to ratify the contract due to insurance concerns leaving the former Melbourne, Newcastle and Sydney Roosters player with an uncertain future.
"I honestly don't know what the situation is," Arthur told AAP.
"Richie was medically cleared to make a return to footy and we signed him to add some depth to our squad.
"I haven't personally been told anything, but it appears there is an issue with the NRL and it's unfortunate for us and for him.
"Richie has trained well this pre-season and we were hoping to play him in the trials. But I honestly don't know what the full situation is now."
The Eels also signed former St George Illawarra and Newcastle prop Danny Wicks in the off-season and Arthur said he's been impressed by the 29-year-old, who hasn't played in the NRL since 2009 due to an 18-month prison sentence for drug trafficking.
"He's got his head down and worked really hard," Arthur said.
"He obviously hasn't played for a long time, but he hasn't lost any of the skills that made him good enough to play in the NRL.
"We are not expecting miracles from him but he adds some depth and experience to our forward pack.
"He's real old school, runs hard with his head down and he could be a useful pick up for us.
"He's focused and wants to prove a point and he deserves to be given a chance to play again."
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