Midway through 2016, the former Rabbitohs star famously signed with arch rivals the Sydney Roosters, six months after a reported argument with owner Russell Crowe.

Two years on, and the Sydney Roosters five-eighth could end the Rabbitohs' dreams of a shot at their first title since he helped them to an emotional triumph in 2014.

Keary insists he has left the circumstances behind his Redfern exit behind him, and reckons everyone else on both sides of the bitter rivalry have too.

"It's been a while now. They've probably forgotten about me," Keary tells AAP.

"Obviously both sets of fans are really passionate, and it sets it up for a big game. But I don't anticipate copping anything from the crowd. I wouldn't be able to hear it anyway."

The 26-year-old did admit however at keeping one eye on his former club, and knew there was a chance fate would have the two foundation clubs meeting at the pointy end of the season.

"We've obviously tracked along pretty good throughout the year, so it was a possibility," he said.

And after falling one game short of a decider in his first year at the Roosters last season, Keary is banking on the experience of halves partner Cooper Cronk to end the club's finals hoodoo.

The Roosters are set to appear in their fourth preliminary final in five years, the first of which came against Keary and the Rabbitohs on their way to their breakthrough title.

Cronk has played in nine grand final qualifiers, winning seven, and was lured to the Roosters to be the missing piece in their chase for an elusive premiership.

Keary says Cronk has already had a major impact on his game in the space of nine months.

"He's got a real good feel for the game, he knows exactly what to say and do in situations, not just in his own position, but he knows what everyone else should be doing," he said.

"He's taught me some things about rugby league in general that I'll keep with me forever, but he's definitely made me a better player in a short amount of time."

Australian Associated Press