Maitua had his first training run with the Eels on Friday after his two-year suspension from the game for drug use expired.
Maitua tested positive to Clenbuterol, which he has admitted he used to mask recreational drug use.
The 28-year-old former Test lock signed a two-year deal with the Eels and was expected to run out for feeder side Wentworthville in coming weeks.
He said he hoped to debut for the Eels later this season but felt it was too early to say exactly when.
"Two years is a long time out of the game, but I want to do well and finish the game on my terms," Maitua told reporters.
"I don't think they expect me to do much for them on the field just yet.
"I'll try to encourage younger players. I'm a senior player now and I'll do as much as I can around the place to help lift them.
"'Mooksy' (Eels coach Stephen Kearney) just said when you're right, you can play.
"I've done everything as best I could to prepare ... I'm down in weight to when I was playing before but nothing prepares you for match fitness.
"In two or three games hopefully I'm back to where I need to be."
Kearney said the break could work in Maitua's favour.
"The penalty's fairly severe and I'm sure he sees it as the opportunity to get himself back on track," Kearney said.
"I'm sure two years has given him a lot of time to have a think about things, seeing ex team-mates running around, so I'm confident he's fine.
"Sometimes those types of adversities are a blessing in disguise for players, as long as they learn from them and come back with an attitude of making sure they get things right the next time round."
- AAP
Tags: sport, rugby-league, nrl, australia, nsw, parramatta-2150 First posted May 20, 2011 16:40:00
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