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Trent Barrett is adamant Kyle Flanagan can still find a way back to the NRL despite the being dropped for the third time in as many games.

Trent Barrett insists there is a path back to the NRL for Kyle Flanagan after the 22-year-old was dropped for a third time by Canterbury.

The Bulldogs will opt for Bailey Biondi-Odo at halfback against Wests Tigers on Sunday, after calling him up from the bench during the week in place of Flanagan.

The young gun has provided spark at dummy-half for Canterbury this season, but is a natural half and grew up playing the position.

But his call up - along with a new two-year deal - has thrown further doubt over Flanagan's future at the last-placed Bulldogs.

Brought to the Bulldogs after being pushed out following his first season at the Sydney Roosters, Flanagan has now been dropped three times.

He was the Dogs' half for the first nine rounds, axed, brought back for a week into a team weakened by COVID bans, dropped again and then recalled for one game last week before his latest demotion.

"It's not easy for anybody when they're in and out of the team and he's not the only one," Barrett told AAP.

"We've had a few. That happens when you're not getting results. We'd certainly liked to have won more games than what we have.

"But the big thing is that we need to keep improving and showing improvement. This week Bailey gets his opportunity."

Canterbury also have Matt Burton headed for the club next year, with the Penrith star set to partner Jake Averillo in the halves.

Asked if there was a way back for Flanagan, Barrett replied: "Definitely.

"He's only young ... All our young players go through ups and downs as halves, particularly in that position.

"There's a lot of pressure that comes with that jumper and that number on your back. It's always been, been that way.

"So there's certainly (a way back)."

Barrett backed Biondi-Odo to provide the same spark as a half as he has off the bench as a hooker in his five games for the Bulldogs.

His rise to the No.7 jersey comes despite COVID-19 limiting his opportunities in the past 18 months.

"He's a natural half, he's done a good job for us off the bench there at hooker in the last few weeks and provided a little bit of spark for us as well," Barrett said.

"We don't want to heap a lot of pressure on him, he's just going to play his role there.

"I'm confident he'll do a job he's trying really well. The players enjoy playing with him and get a lot of confidence with him there."