FORMER Newport Gwent Dragons centre Gareth Maule has returned to Ebbw Vale, nearly a decade after last turning out for the Steelmen.

The 29-year-old, who left Bristol in November, links up with the Eugene Cross Park outfit again in a player-coach role.

Injuries plagued his time at the Aviva Premiership side but now he is looking forward to pulling on an Ebbw jersey once more.

And Pontypool-born Maule will also be working alongside a familiar face in the shape of head coach Nigel Davies, who he played under at the Scarlets.

“It’s great to be involved again with Ebbw Vale, where I gained my first taste of senior rugby,” said Maule, an under-16, 18, 19 and 20 Wales international.

“They are a friendly but ambitious club and the opportunity to work alongside Nigel Davies in my home region is one which I look forward to.”

Maule first appeared for the Steelmen in 2006 before going on to represent Newport and Cross Keys during his spell with the Dragons.

He left Rodney Parade for the Scarlets in May 2009 and played more than 100 games in the famous red shirt.

After five years in Llanelli, Maule moved to Bristol, scoring seven tries in 29 matches and helping the club earn promotion to the Aviva Premiership at the end of last season.

“As a player, Gareth brings physicality and both an attacking and defensive edge which he has displayed time and time again at the top level,” said Ebbw chief Davies.

“He’s a talented individual with a mass of experience he’s shown during his time with me at the Scarlets and at Bristol. We are excited to have him here.”

Chairman Jon Jones added: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to secure someone of Gareth’s calibre.

“He’s got a wealth of Heineken Cup and Pro12 experience and is a consummate professional.

“We are confident he will bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and professionalism to the club which will no doubt improve and enthuse the current squad.”

Speaking late last year, Bristol chief executive Steve Gorvett said: “Gareth and the club came to an agreement following amicable discussions.

“We’re grateful to the contribution he made to Bristol Rugby during his time here.

“Gareth suffered successive serious injuries which has hampered his opportunities over the past 12 months, but we wish him the very best of luck in the next chapter.”

Meanwhile, the Steelmen have secured the services of back-five forward Jonathan Davies from Ynsyddu.

The 23-year-old has impressed in training, Foster’s Challenge Cup matches and in a 20-minute cameo from the bench at Bedwas on Boxing Day.