“It’s actually my first time coming up against an Aussie in the K-League since I’ve been here,” Cornthwaite, the former Adelaide United star, told au.fourfourtwo.com.

“I arrived just a little into the season so I missed the clash with Sasa [Ognenovski] and against DeVere’s side I was on the bench as it was early days and I was just coming into the squad.

“So I’m looking forward firstly to catching up with him [DeVere] and swapping stories.

"But it’s a big game,” the 197-cm defender, capped once for the Socceroos, said.

Next week, the Dragons face Jeju United also at home. It’s a crucial period said Cornthwaite who joined the K-League in March and is eying a top six finish with his new club.

“This next two weeks is really going to decide whether we make the top six or not, I suppose. For our club there’s a lot of hype around these two matches and they are both at home.”

DeVere was part of the Socceroo squad for Wednesday morning’s successful World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia.

He’ll fly back into the Korea Republic to a competition generally regarded as the second best competition in the region behind the J-League.

Some questioned his move from Brisbane Roar, the A-League champions, this year but it appears DeVere is making a success of it in the Korea Republic.

“Actually most of the players couldn’t believe how young he is, they were quite surprised when I told them,” Cornthwaite said when asked about the 21-year-old's progress. 

“From all reports I’ve got from other players they quite like him and think he’s a very good defender, which he is.

“It’s always good to have come from the A-League and to get game time in the K-League and get that respect. I’m sure it does Australian football proud.

"That can only be good for Australian football and other players who may want to come over.”

The tall former Red has impressed too after his move from Hindmarsh earlier this year, carving out a regular spot and scoring some key goals at the Dragons.

His stats back this up. He’s twice been voted in the K-League team of the week, has one man of the match award and two goals to his name after 16 appearances at Chunnam.

“I’ve even surprised myself,” 25-year-old Cornthwaite said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity in a big league and like any other player I’ve backed myself.

“I probably wasn’t sure what I was getting into but playing 90 minute each week is something I’m grateful for. I don’t take it for granted.”