Bridges played two seasons with the Jets and captained the team last year before the knee injury forced him to quit in April. He stayed with the club in a backroom business role until today.

The English striker was disappointed injury forced his retirement - but quietly returned to training with the team eight weeks ago.

Jets were goiven the green light to re-sign the former Leeds United star after Ali Abbas was allowed to be counted as Australian instead of a visa  player by the FFA because of his refugee status.

“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 said he was 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.”