It would be rugby's version of the incredible journey but Melbourne Rebels coach Dave Wessels says it's conceivable Quade Cooper will be Australia's starting five-eighth at the World Cup.

Unwanted by Brad Thorn at the Queensland Reds, Cooper's shift to Melbourne and his efforts from day one of pre-season have convinced Wessels the mercurial five-eighth will make a big statement in 2019.

Back to the future: Quade Cooper fends off Scotland's Matt Scott at Allianz Stadium in 2017. Credit:AAP

Whether it ends with a starring role at the World Cup in Japan will be fascinating.

Wessels confirmed a first appearance for his new Super Rugby team comes this Saturday when the Rebels face the Brumbies in Canberra.