St George Illawarra skipper Ben Hornby says he expects Matt Cooper to play in Wednesday’s Anzac Day clash against Sydney Roosters after overcoming an ankle complaint.

Cooper has been sidelined for the Dragons’ last three games – with his return sure to bolster an attack that has been floundering in recent weeks.

His likely inclusion sees the Dragons virtually at full-strength for the annual match against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

“Coops has has been training so we’re assuming as long as he gets through today that he’ll be right to go,” Hornby said ahead of Thursday’s final training run.

“He’s a great player and a big part of our attack – to have him back is going to be a huge boost.”

Hornby will break Norm Provan’s Dragons record of 256 appearances in the ‘red v’ when he leads his side out against the Roosters.