Manly rookie Cade Cust is the latest to throw himself into contention for the club’s problematic five-eighth spot alongside Daly Cherry-Evans.

Cust was arguably the Sea Eagles’ best in their 15-12 defeat to Penrith on Friday night, scoring a try and setting up their second at Panthers Stadium.

His effort gives coach Des Hasler plenty to stew over before Cherry-Evans returns from State of Origin duty for next week’s away clash with North Queensland.

He is the fourth player tried there over the opening 12 rounds, including Lachlan Croker, Curtis Sironen and Kane Elgey.

Croker is a chance of being back to take on the Cowboys, Sironen is primarily a second-rower, while Elgey was well-contained by the Panthers.

Cust looked like Manly’s most potent threat against Penrith.

“Yeah, he had some good moments in the game, Cade. It’s certainly gives us good options and good depth,” Hasler said.

“He’s got a bit of versatility about him as well. I’m really happy with Cade at the moment, plus the experience he’s getting as well.”

Star fullback Tom Trbojevic is also an outside chance of returning from his own hamstring injury, coinciding with the return of their Origin stars.

Cherry-Evans, however, could also be nursed through what is expected to be a gruelling Origin period – his first as Queensland captain.

Hasler said the next two months were all about survival, and the signs were on show last week when a number of teams were upset by rivals.

“All sides are in a similar predicament. You saw last week, it’s not what you call upsets last week, but there were probably some form reversals,” he said.

“It’s just that time of year. You’ve got to battle through it, get some players back, and try and stay healthy.”