25 Facts About Michael Bridges

Michael Bridges was born on 5 August 1978 and is an English professional football manager and retired former player.

Michael Bridges played in the Football League for Bristol City, Carlisle United, Hull City and Milton Keynes Dons as well as playing in Australia with Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets and Lambton Jaffas.

Michael Bridges was capped 11 times by England U21, scoring three goals.

Michael Bridges made a total of 79 Appearances at Sunderland, and scored 16 Goals.

Michael Bridges who travelled down to sign a contract with manager George Graham and many years later in a 2021 podcast he recalled the reason he didn't make the move was the treatment he got from owner Alan Sugar as he was about to sign his contract.

Michael Bridges said: 'Young man, nice to meet you I've never heard of you before, I've heard you're a Sunderland reserve player, I'm putting all my faith in these two lads [Graham and Pleat] here who say I've got to pay this kind of money for you.

Michael Bridges helped his side finish third in the Premiership, qualify for the Champions League and reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup.

Michael Bridges made only six appearances for Newcastle, and failed to score in any of those matches.

Michael Bridges was quickly snapped up by Bolton Wanderers but made no first team appearances.

In November 2005 Michael Bridges joined Carlisle United, becoming perhaps their most influential player in their successful promotion charge into League One.

On 24 July 2008, Michael Bridges returned to Carlisle, on a season-long loan deal.

In July 2009, Michael Bridges was taken on pre-season tour by Norwich City, as a trialist.

On 8 August 2009, Michael Bridges was signed by Milton Keynes Dons on a non-contract basis.

Michael Bridges came on as a substitute towards the end of the match on the opening day of the season against Hartlepool United and started in a League Cup defeat against Swindon Town, being replaced in the second half.

Michael Bridges left the club after three weeks and making two appearances, and decided to return to Australia to continue his career.

On 25 September 2009, it was confirmed that Michael Bridges was trialling with the Newcastle Jets with a view to earn a six-month contract at the club.

Michael Bridges announced on Fox Sports' Matchday Saturday program that, if all went well, he and Jets coach, Branko Culina would sit down and discuss a contract.

Michael Bridges managed to last for around 80 minutes before being replaced by Sasho Petrovski.

Branko Culina expressed his surprise that Michael Bridges had lasted so long and suggested that he would only improve as he continued to increase his match-fitness.

Michael Bridges scored again in the 50th minute after finishing a precise through-ball from Matt Thompson, and in turn set up Thompson for the decisive goal of the match in the 58th minute before being substituted a minute later in light of a recent hamstring injury.

On 22 July 2010, Michael Bridges was named captain of the Newcastle Jets alongside defender Ljubo Milicevic who was named the vice-captain thereby becoming the first international captain in the club's history.

On 29 April 2011, Michael Bridges announced his retirement from his playing career following a knee injury, taking on a new role with owners of the Newcastle Jets, Tinkler Sports Group.

On 14 March 2013, Michael Bridges extended his contract with the Jets for another season.

Michael Bridges' agreement included involvement with the Emerging Jets program in the off-season.

In February 2015, Michael Bridges signed a one-year contract with the Lambton Jaffas FC in the National Premier Leagues Northern NSW.