Veteran English striker Michael Bridges has put his hand up to lead the Newcastle Jets into the future after re-signing with the A-League club for a further two seasons.
The 31-year-old former Leeds United star on Wednesday achieved his goal of earning a new contract after proving a revelation since joining the Jets two months ago from English third-tier club Carlisle.
Bridges has already contributed four goals and four assists in seven matches, with coach Branko Culina and the club moving quickly to extend his stay after scoring a double against his former club Sydney FC on Sunday.
The signature is a significant one for the Jets, who will lose captain Matt Thompson to new franchise Melbourne Heart next season and Bridges shapes as an ideal candidate to take over the captaincy.
The former England under 21 international ruled out taking over the captaincy from Thompson this campaign, but said he would be honoured to step up to the position next season if selected.
“Matt’s the captain for this season, he’s a fantastic captain on and off the field and he’s a good friend,” Bridges said.
“I’m gutted he’s leaving and as for this season I’d rule it out because Matt’s the guy, but for next season and following that I’d love to step forward if Branko would like that and I’m quite happy to take the responsibility.”
Jets chief executive John Tsatsimas said Bridges was a leading candidate for the captaincy.
“He’s in prime contention I would think,” Tsatsimas said.
“He’s got all the attributes of a captain, his personality, he’s a quality player and he’s approachable.”
Bridges, who was recommended to the Jets by Socceroos star and former Leeds teammate Harry Kewell, said it was an easy decision to re-sign after quickly adapting to the Newcastle lifestyle.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” he said.
“It’s been fantastic since I’ve come here, on and off the field I’ve loved it.
“I always wanted to come back and have a go in the A-League again.
“Obviously the Jets gave me the chance and after being here a few weeks I wanted to go on and earn a longer contract.”
Bridges, who also played in the English Premier League with Sunderland, was once touted as the next big thing in English football before his career was stalled by a shocking run of injuries.
Are you the ultimate team manager? Pick your own superstar team and go head to head with other football fans for glory and cash prizes on Draftstars. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Set a deposit limit.
The A-League world shared a collective sigh of relief with the news on Tuesday that the Newcastle Jets had finally been bought and are…
Joe Lolley was outstanding for the Sky Blues, scoring a brace as Sydney FC equaled their biggest ever victory.
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Even though St.Pauli ultimately lost a high-scoring affair, Jackson Irvine was a standout, as well as scoring a late goal.
Mathew Leckie played a pivotal part in Melbourne City claiming an 8-nil win; playing a role in several of his team's goals.
The loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
