Now a North Queensland halfback, the young playmaker hopes to eradicate a horror 21 game losing streak when he lines up against the side he began his NRL career with before being shipped to the Cowboys in a mid-year deal.

After signing on for three years at the Cowboys, Dearden has been on the wrong end of more brutal losses, his club's finals aspirations slipping away with them.

"Every week you go out there and do your best to win the game and it's been a while since I've been able to have that feeling coming off the field," Dearden said after his fourth consecutive loss with his new club.

With the Cowboys now riding a six-game losing streak, his coach Todd Payten hopes a little insider knowledge will aid in a 2021 derby double over rivals Brisbane.

"He's (Dearden) been very handy to have in our video sessions," Payten said.

"He gives us a lot of insight into where they like to get to, what sort of plays they like to use, different individuals and how they like to get the ball.

"He's been really vocal and really positive a training, been good to have around."

Former coach Kevin Walters says the Broncos' gameplan won't differ against a familiar foe, with the same traffic heading Dearden's way as any other NRL half.

"He's like all the kickers in the NRL, we ideally want to put some pressure on him and his kicking game," Walters said,

"Also being in that position where he defends in the halves, that's always a key position defensively as well.

"It'll be different for our players are running out against Tom but that day had to come this year at some stage, and we arrive at it tomorrow night."

Australian Associated Press