Former Canterbury NRL star Reni Maitua will return to the Bulldogs in 2013.

After being released three years into a four-year contract with Parramatta, Maitua has linked with the Bulldogs for another season.

A former Test player and grand final winner with the Bulldogs in 2004, Maitua played 100 games for the club before leaving for Cronulla in 2009.

But the utility forward was banned from the game mid that season for two years when he tested positive to an illegal substance.

Maitua said he was excited to be be back where his first grade career began.

“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years since I made my NRL debut and won a premiership so to be able to come back here and work towards repeating history is going to be great, Maitua said.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity and it’ll be great to finish off my career where it all started.

Bulldogs coach Des Hasler believes Maitua still has a lot to contribute to the game of rugby league.

“Reni is an experienced player at this level and he will add a lot to our squad,” Hasler said.