Leigh Centurions have completed the signing of former Catalans and Australia star Willie Tonga.

The centre has been granted his release from the Dragons after a frustrating year with the French club that saw him spend time out through injury and also played out of his preferred position.

A former Queensland star, Tonga started his career at Parramatta Eels before moving to Canterbury Bulldogs in 2004. It was there that his career took off as he enjoyed incredible team and individual success, starring in the Bulldogs’ 2004 Grand Final winning season and also being awarded the Dally M centre of the year award the same year. His performances saw him selected for both Australia and Queensland, scoring for the Kangaroos in their 44-4 Tri Nations final victory over Great Britain in 2004.

He later went on to play for North Queensland and briefly returned to Parramatta before moving to Catalans. Despite a frustrating year, Tonga still scored seven tries in 18 appearances.

Tonga, 32, is the latest huge name to arrive at Leigh, following the likes of Rangi Chase, Cory Paterson and Harrison Hansen.