Departing Canterbury star Ben Barba has credited Des Hasler and Todd Greenberg for saving his NRL career and his life.

On the day it was announced the reigning Dally M medal winner had been granted a release by the Bulldogs to join Brisbane in 2014, Barba thanked the role of coach Hasler and former chief executive Greenberg in getting his career back on track.

Barba was stood down for the opening three games of the season to deal with a series of personal issues, the club taking a strong stand despite the impact it would have on the team’s performance.

The Bulldogs, like Barba, have struggled to find their best form in 2013, the season taking a back seat to the brilliant fullback’s personal struggles.

“These guys not only saved my footy career but my life,” Barba said in a interview for the Bulldogs website.

“When I was struggling there at the start of the year these two stuck beside me and kept me at this club and helped me get my feet back on the ground.

“I can’t be thankful enough for what they’ve done.”

Barba also thanked new chief executive Raelene Castle for her role in organising his release to the Broncos.

The 24-year-old is heading north to be closer to his family, who are relocating in Brisbane after Barba and partner Ainslie Currie split.

“They’re the reason why I do this, it’s to be able to support them and give them everything they want,” Barba said of his two children.

“I said from the start it would be very difficult for me to stay down in Sydney and continue to play my football knowing that they’re up there.

“I’m very thankful to the club and everyone involved for understanding that and allowing me to be closer to them.”