Michael Bridges was brought in by manager David O'leary for a then record £5 million fee from Sunderland after his predecessor had moved to Athletico Madrid. And his first season proved one to remember as he scored 21 goals in all competitions including a hat-trick in his second game against Southampton. His goals helped the Whites finish third in the Premiership, qualify for the Champions League and reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup. Yet injury blighted his time at Elland Road. He was seriously injured in the goalless draw in a Champions League match with Beşiktaş and would only make 10 more appearances in the following four seasons of his Leeds United career. READ MORE: 16 of the most iconic Leeds United photos of all time
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Enjoy these photo memories of Michael Bridges in action for Leeds United. PIC: John Giles/PA Photo: John Giles
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Michael Bridges celebrates scoring one of his three goals against Southampton at The Dell with David Batty in August 1999. Photo: Getty
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September 1999 and Michael Bridges plays on with a head wound against Partizan Belgarde in the UEFA Cup first round, first leg clash in Heerenveen. Photo: Getty
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Michael Bridges celebrates scoring against Newcastle United at Elland Road in September 1999. The Whites won 3-2. Photo: Varley Picture Agency
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Michael Bridges scores his second goal against Everton at Goodison Park in September 1999. The finished 4-4. Photo: Getty
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Michael Bridges celebrates his late winner against Southampton in the Premiership at Eland Road in November 1999. Photo: John Giles
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Michael Bridges shoots at goal as Derby County's Danny Higginbotham looks on during the FA Carling Premiership match at Pride Park in September 2000. Photo: Getty
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Michael Bridges scores past Sunderland goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen at the Stadium of Light in January 2000. Leeds won 2-1 to stay top of the Premiership. Photo: Getty
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Michael Bridges celebrates scoring against Coventry City at Elland Road in March 2000. The Whites won 3-0. Photo: Varley Picture Agency
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Michael Bridges celebrates scoring against Bradford City at Valley Parade in March 2000. His brace helped the Whites secure the points in a 2-1 win. Photo: Varley Picture Agency
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Michael Bridges in action against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough in March 2000. He scored in a 3-0 win. Photo: Varley Picture Agency
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Michael Bridges shoots and scores as Leeds United drew 1-1 with Everton at Elland Road in May 2000. Photo: Varley Picture Agency