Gold Coast United defender Kristian Rees had confidence in himself that he would return to the A-League.

The 29-year old defender spent two seasons with Adelaide United, beginning in 2005, and a season with Wellington Phoenix in 2007/08 but then found himself in playing in Adelaide's club competition.

It seemed like his career at the top level may have been finished but Rees was determined to push himself and managed to win a contract with new club Gold Coast United.

"I never had any doubts. I always thought I could do it and get back," he said.

"Unfortunately I didn't get a run last year.

"I was originally coming up to the Galaxy, and that didn't happen, so I played in Adelaide for the year and had a year to think about things."

Despite being in a awkward position where he could not put as much time in to training, Rees ensured he had the fitness and form to warrant another A-League contract.

"When you're not in the league you can't train as much, with other commitments like work, and I just knew I had to do a lot of work to get fit," he added.

"I did my pre-season with Adelaide City and they pushed me hard and mentally I was prepared to do that extra work."

Rees and Gold Coast take on Adelaide United this Friday night, which is a game he is definitely looking forward to.

"Every game I want to win but I guess playing against your old team, you want to win that bit more," he concluded.