After playing five matches for the Bulldogs and 11 for Port Melbourne’s development side this year, the classy forward has opted to return to John Flower Oval.

“He’s a great fellow who we love having around the place and is well respected by all involved with the Wodonga footy club,” Murray said.

“We will look to play ‘Muzz’ in a variety of roles.

“He will be crucial to our ability to put winning scores on the board.”

Murray joined VFL club Northern Blues in 2014 after attracting the attention of officials during the Ovens and Murray's loss to Mornington at Visy Park.

He then played under Gary Ayres at Port Melbourne.

“He will be able to assist our young group by the way he prepares and presents each week,” Harding said.

“We’re looking forward to him imparting some of the knowledge he has gained.”

The dangerous forward has played 80 senior matches for Wodonga after coming through the junior ranks.

The Bulldogs have kept their losses to a minimum with Jarrod Twitt and Tim Kindellan the only confirmed losses.

Twitt has retired while Kindellan will play for Tallangatta and District league club Kiewa-Sandy Creek.

“He has been a fantastic servant of our club over a long period of time and great support of mine over the last couple of years,” Harding said.

Harding said he wanted to retain his list and bolster specific areas.

“We would love to add a polished outside mid,” he said.

Wodonga has been gradual improvers under Harding, missing out on finals action by percentage this season.

The Bulldogs have made no secret of the fact that they want to break into the top-five and, along with Wangaratta, look the side most likely to do it.

Wodonga will start pre-season training on November 15 with two sessions a week.