St George Illawarra coach Steve Price has declared Matt Cooper a certain starter for Saturday night’s meeting with NRL premiers Manly at WIN Jubilee Oval.

But representative utility Beau Scott remains in doubt.

Cooper has missed the Dragons’ past two matches after injuring his ankle in the season-opening win over Newcastle but, after being named to return on Tuesday, took part in the team’s final training run in Wollongong on Friday.

There’s no such certainty over Scott, however, as he continues to struggle with the cork he suffered in round two.

Price revealed he would not be altering his backline to accommodate Scott if he is passed fit, with the Test star to line up in the back row with Brett Morris retaining the fullback position he excelled in last week and Kyle Stanley at right centre.

“We’re in pretty good shape – Matt Cooper’s definitely going to play and we’ll make a decision with Beau after training,” Price said.

“Things are looking quite positive – we’re really looking forward to the challenge tomorrow night.”