Michael Bridges

Michael Bridges (born 5 August 1978) is an English football striker who is currently playing with the Newcastle Jets.

Sunderland

Bridges emerged as one of the Premier League's most promising young strikers during the 1996–97 season at Sunderland, but was unable to save them from relegation. Two years later he helped them return to the Premiership and joined Leeds United for £5million soon afterwards.

He made a total of 79 Appearances at Sunderland, and scored 16 Goals

Leeds United

In his first season at Elland Road, Bridges scored 19 Premiership goals including a hat-trick against Southampton. Bridges also helped his side finish third in the Premiership, qualify for the Champions League and reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup. Bridges was seriously injured in the 0-0 draw with Beşiktaş J.K. and was plagued with injuries over the next 4 seasons of his Leeds United career, only making 10 appearances and not scoring any goals.

Newcastle United

As a result of his injuries he was loaned out to Newcastle United in January 2004 in order to help alleviate their striker crisis. After only making a single start for Newcastle, on the right wing as opposed to in his favoured striking role, Bridges was out of contract in the summer of 2004 with his contract not being renewed due to his injury problems, he made only 6 appearances for Newcastle, and failed to score in any of those matches.

Carlisle United

His spell at Ashton Gate ended in November 2005, and he joined Carlisle United, becoming perhaps their most influential player in their successful promotion charge into League One. Bridges' 15 goals made him very popular in Carlisle and thanks to them he reestablished his football career, but the fans were sad when he decided to leave Brunton Park on transfer deadline day, 31 August 2006. It was reported that Hull City had a £250,000 bid for Bridges turned down, and that because of this, Bridges handed in a transfer request. Hull returned with an improved bid of £350,000, and this was accepted.