Interview: Newcastle Jets Mark Bridge

Mark Bridge is a man who loves his football. I caught up with Mark Bridge at this week's Olyroos camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

It’s always great to see someone enjoying their job. In the highly competitive world of football it’s rare to see a player smiling in the middle of a game. Olyroos and Newcastle Jets forward Mark Bridge is a man who plays with a smile on his face.

Bridge was a vital player for Newcastle Jets in their push for a Grand Final place last season. He has pace, and energy and scores vital goals.

He represented Australia at Under 20 level and now plays in the Olyroos under Coach Rob Baan

“Its always different with a new coach. Every coach has their own style and philosophy. Rob Baan makes us press at particular times in games. He makes us pass the ball much quicker. Its good, I’m enjoying it, he brings a different style, it’s a good style.”

Recent trips to play in Iran and Saudi Arabia are taking their toll.

“The travel is hard, it’s taken me ten days to recover from our last trip to Saudi Arabia. My body still hasn't come back to Australian time yet. But once you cross the white line it’s okay. It’s even harder for the guys from Sydney FC and Adelaide United playing in the Asian Champions League”

Saudi Arabia, Iran and Jordan are all in the middle of their season. The Australian A-League players are trying to keep as fit as possible between qualifiers.

“The Saudi’s were a little sharper in the last game, but the lads have to keep their training up. It’s down to the individuals professionalism to keep fit on their own.”

When the qualifiers end Newcastle will be back for pre-season.

“I don’t think I’ll get much of a break. My team, Newcastle, go on break for four weeks tomorrow. Maybe Duchy (Coach Gary Van Egmond) will give us a couple of weeks off when the Olyroos’ games finish.”

“I’ve got another season at Newcastle. Hopefully we can get another forward or two. We lost Milton Rodriguez and Vaughan Coveny, but the Coach is over in Brazil looking at players, so hopefully we’ll get some quality in.”

“I love playing in the A-League. I miss the week in week out build up to the games. The crowds were brilliant in Newcastle especially towards the end of the season. Newcastle is the perfect place to play football. I’m loving it”