The Newcastle Jets have today signed Michael Bridges for the remainder of the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League season.
The Newcastle Jets have today signed Michael Bridges for the remainder of the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League season.
Bridges played two seasons with the Jets and captained the team last year before a knee injury forced him to retire in April 2011.
The English striker was disappointed injury forced his retirement but accepted the invitation to resume training with the team eight weeks ago.
It become a reality for the Jets to sign Bridges after Ali Abbas was recently issued a dispensation from the FFA to become a squad member rather than one of the Club-s visa players.
“I still feel like I have something to offer and after a rest, the body is feeling great,” Bridges said today.
“I have had an eight week trial to see how the body held up and then had to show Gary (van Egmond) over the last two weeks that I was still up to it.
“It has been great to see what happens off the field through my role at the Club, but you are a long time retired and I am just so excited to get another chance to play for the Jets.
“Whatever role is required of me, I am just happy to be a part of the team and I will contribute in whatever way I can.”
Jets coach Gary van Egmond is delighted to welcome Bridges back to the Jets.
“Since I have been head coach, Michael has certainly impressed on and off the field,” van Egmond said.
“With his experience and knowledge he will be a fantastic acquisition for our team.”
