Tim Smith a danger man for Eels: Sherwin

They have shared a barrage of criticism this season but Bulldogs halfback Brent Sherwin has identified his opposite Tim Smith as the man to stop in Saturday's NRL semi-final clash with Parramatta.

Both number sevens have endured patchy form this season and still have plenty of doubters as to their ability to lead their sides long-term ahead of the do-or-die clash at Telstra Stadium.

Sherwin has come under fire for his kicking game and lack of involvement, while Smith's decision-making and consistency have also come under the microscope.

But Sherwin doesn't buy into the argument Smith could be the Eels' weak link, instead tipping the pacy pivot to be the danger man for the Bulldogs.

"We're going to have to watch him, because everything he touches seems to be turning to gold at the moment," Sherwin said.

"He's been on fire over the last couple of weeks and has got his team going very well, so that's what I've got to do to my side for us to be a good chance."

While Sherwin has shown glimpses of his best form since returning to first grade midway through the season, he acknowledges he still has his share of sceptics.

But the 29-year-old said he would be focussed on only what Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes thinks come Saturday night.

"I don't really worry about what everyone else says but I've kind of gotten use to it," Sherwin said.

"Folkesy's got me playing how he wants me to play, so if I keep him happy I stay in the side.

"I'm trying to get my kicking game in order and I think I'll get a lot more confidence out of that so if I can get that on song it goes a long way to us staying alive for a another week."

The Bulldogs return to full-strength for the clash with Sonny Bill Williams back from a one-week suspension and Willie Mason and Mark O'Meley both in the side after injury-layoffs.

Young forward Jarrad Hickey said having all three big men on deck would inspire the rest of the troops.

"It's unbelievable, this is the first time we've had a full strength side all year and what better time to get it than going into semi-finals football," Hickey said.

"It's unbelievable the feeling (to play with them), the whole forward pack is an inspiration to play behind and when I get out there it makes my job a lot easier.

"I really feed off them, they can teach me a lot and I really learn from them.

"When you've got Willie Mason running next to you, you want to do your best job and not let him down, so you really put in and go that extra step."