Dragons star Mark Gasnier has declared himself fully fit for a return to the NRL just when St George Illawarra need some breathing space in the top eight.

Coach Nathan Brown had indicated earlier this week Gasnier would be at least another round away from returning after missing the club's loss to Cronulla on Saturday with a thigh injury.

But after coming through a gruelling workout on Monday with flying colours, the Test centre was named by Brown to play the Wests Tigers this Friday.

Gasnier insisted there would be no question marks surrounding his fitness.

"I had a really tough session on Monday and got through it really well and have pulled up fine today so I think that's a good sign and the physio and the doctor are happy, so I'll take the field," Gasnier said.

After three losses in their last four games, the sixth-placed Dragons are keen to shore up their spot in the top eight, as just two points separate them from the New Zealand Warriors in 12th spot.

Gasnier said the Dragons were well aware of how many teams were breathing down their necks and predicted a finals atmosphere at WIN Stadium.

The Tigers are one of five clubs tied for eighth spot on 22 points.

"The Tigers have already said how desperate they are, so I think it's going to have a feel of semi-final football out there," he said.

"It's a very important game, we really want to stay where we are on the table and we know we've got a good seven or eight teams behind us who are really closing in on us."

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