Michael Tonge

Michael Tonge is a midfielder of Leeds United. He was born on 7 April 1983 in Manchester, England.

Michael came on the trial to the academy of Manchester United in the mid-1990s’ and managed to get a place in one of junior squads of the club. The footballer trained in the youth system of ‘The Red Devils’ during several years and gained priceless experience from the coaching staff. In 1999, Tonge moved to the academy of Sheffield United and spent two years there before making his professional start.

In 2001, the midfielder penned his first senior contract with ‘The Blades’ and was given a chance to show his skills at once. Despite the absence of professional appearances, Michael made confident and solid display, which made him one of the anchor players of the club. He took part in 262 fixtures and amassed 21 goals for his team during seven years.

In 2008, the footballer sealed a deal with Stoke City, but his performance for ‘The Potters’ cannot be called stable, as he was sent on loan to Preston North End, Derby County and Barnsley between 2009 and 2012. In September 2012, Tonge put pen to paper of a temporary contract with Leeds United and after a short spell signed a permanent deal.

From 2002 till 2004, the midfielder was capped three times for the England national U-20 and U-21 squads.