Coach Paul McGregor says he is happy for experts to write his St George Illawarra Dragons off much the same way they did in 2015 when they made the playoffs only to lose in golden point to Canterbury-Bankstown.

The Dragons mentor says having much the same roster will only benefit his team while rivals experience huge turnover.

“It’s not talked about much and probably a bit under-rated but if you can keep your core together, your spine together, then it makes for a hell of an easier pre-season,” McGregor said.

“Our edges are the same, so defensively we already know how we all play.

“Rosters get changed, coaches come and go – and sometimes that’s all out of your control. But when you look at our 17, there’s only minimal changes. And that all helps for the season.

“I don’t think many sides can say they’ve got 21 of their 25 players contracted for 2017.”

McGregor was also shocked that his team hadn’t featured in more predicted Top 8 lists.

“It’s totally unexpected to have most experts having us miss the eight, and even down the bottom,” McGregor added.

“But that’s only perception, and I’ve spoken to the guys about that. It’s about what we can actually do.

“I’m quite happy to be the underdog too. I know other teams have bought well, so we’re not expected to be in the eight. But I’m expecting us to play well.”