Trent Barrett appears an unlikely starter in Sunday's NRL clash against the Bulldogs after admitting he is still struggling to regain full movement in his injured neck.

Barrett's desperate bid to complete what would be a miracle seven-day recovery seemed shot on Friday, the former St George Illawarra skipper claiming the neck would have to improve significantly before he even contemplated taking on the `Dogs.

Playing again this season let alone this weekend looked a long shot last Sunday when Barrett was taken from the field complaining of numbness in his arm.

His head collided with the hip of teammate Blake Ferguson while they completed a tackle on Dragons backrower Ben Creagh.

He was released from hospital on Sunday and returned to training on Thursday, but he failed to take part in the field session after participating in the warm-up.

"It's not too bad, it's still a bit sore but it's still a couple of days until we play," Barrett said.

"I need it to get a little bit better before I'd even think about playing.

"I'll probably leave it alone the next few days and just hope it settles down. Fingers crossed it gets better but it may take a bit of time, we just have to wait and see.

"I'm running around alright, it's just the contact and the movement really that I'm still having a few problems with."

Blake Green trained in Barrett's place during the team's session on Thursday.

Barrett will be checked out by the club doctor on Saturday morning before a final decision is made on his availability.

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