Cooper yesterday admitted the Sharks recruit's impressive early season form - as well as Barrett having a point to prove against his former club - makes the star five-eighth St George Illawarra's biggest danger.

In the Dragons' return to Kogarah's WIN Jubilee Oval, the two former team-mates will square off for the first time since Barrett left the club for the English Super League in 2006.

"I've worked really well with Trent, he's a great player," he said.

"I've enjoyed playing with him over the years, it's going to be pretty interesting.

"I've watched both of their games, he's really impressed me.

"His attitude seems to be good, he's scored a couple of tries and been putting in a great effort."

Cooper admitted Barrett's return to Kogarah since signing with the Dragons' bitter rivals adds fuel to the fire for Sunday's blockbuster clash.

The game will also be coach Wayne Bennett's first game in charge of the Dragons at WIN Jubilee Oval and is dual international Wendell Sailor's 200th NRL game.

Barrett, who debuted with the Illawarra Steelers back in 1996, first played alongside Cooper in the NRL in 2000.

Playing with the likes of prop Jason Ryles and centre Mark Gasnier, as well as present Dragons halfback Ben Hornby and hooker Dean Young, they formed the most talented St George Illawarra line-ups since the 1999 merger.

Barrett joined the Sharks on his return to the NRL, claiming he would have returned for the "wrong reasons" if he played for St George Illawarra again.

The 31-year-old playmaker was the face of the Dragons' on-field success and failure and was singled out for criticism in the failed finals campaigns of 2005 and 2006.

Cooper knows Barrett will be looking to make his presence felt on Sunday.

"It will be weird seeing Baz on the other side," he said. 'He'll be out to put a couple of shots on a few us."

When asked if he would be looking to return the favour, Cooper replied "oh for sure".