Bridges (left) & Lumsdon

By Oli
April 9 2009

The Cumbrian News & Star has today linked the Dons with an end of season swoop for out of contract Carlisle United duo Michael Bridges and Chris Lumsdon. Striker Bridges, who has been troubled with injury throughout his career, is on loan from Hull City.

There are said to be a number of clubs, including the Dons and Carlisle, monitoring Bridges' fitness as his Hull contract will most probably not be renewed this summer.

The striker, who turns 31 in August, has scored only five goals this season, and has usually featured from the bench, but has undoubted ability, having scored 19 Premier League goals in just 34 appearances for Leeds United in the 99-00 season. That earnt him a £5 million move to Sunderland but he has struggled with various injury problems ever since, although he has made 26 appearances in total this season, 18 of those coming off the bench.

Lumsdon, a central midfielder, has also been plagued by injury this season, making only four appearances, two of which were starts. Prior to this season however Lumsdon has been a key man for the Cumbrian side, scoring seven goals as they won promotion from League Two. He is comfortable in an attacking or defensive role in midfield.

The News & Star reports that Dons manager Roberto Di Matteo has sent scouts to watch the duo in recent weeks, with Bridges bagging the opening goal in their 2-2 draw with Leicester City last weekend.