SAINTS full-back Ben Barba sees Warrington as dangerous opposition under his former coach.

Wire’s new top dog Steve Price, who replaced Tony Smith when his nine seasons at the helm ended last September, was assistant coach when Barba helped Cronulla Sharks to their first ever Premiership in 2016.

Warrington, with 13 departures in the off-season, six new signings and a much-changed backroom team under Price, are a work in progress at this stage.

If things had worked out differently, with Barba having chosen Saints over The Wire, the in-form number one could well have found himself working with Price again.

“Like the boys do here with Justin Holbrook, if the Warrington players buy in to what Steve Price wants and how he goes about his football I’m sure they’ll be a tough side to beat,” said Barba.

“He’s worked under some of the best coaches in the NRL, including Wayne Bennett. I’m sure he will do a wonderful job at Warrington.

“Pricey’s a good coach and I found him really helpful for my career especially in my time at the Sharks.

“I worked really hard with him in 2016 and obviously you share a special bond not only with the players but with the coaching staff that you enjoyed a wonderful ride with.”