Wellington Phoenix have not been allowed to enter a youth team in the New Zealand Football Championship.

The decision has caused concern for Phoenix hierarchy who believe the club may suffer without a junior program.

"We're obviously very disappointed that we won't have a team in there (the NZFC) but I guess we just have to cop it on the chin. We feel a youth side is imperative for us to grow as a club," club CEO Tony Pignata said.

"Youngsters are not getting the chance to make an impression when points are at stake and then you want a stage for others to show Ricki (Herbert) that they should be in his side.

"If a player in the side then drops out through injury or another reason then there is the issue of other players being ready to step in."