Bridges (right) is looking forward to playing for manager John Ward

Carlisle United striker Michael Bridges says his hunger to play first-team football was the catalyst for his return to Brunton Park.

Bridges, 29, joined the Cumbrians on a year's loan from Premier League side Hull City on Thursday and is determined to make the most of the opportunity.

"There was only one place I'd come back to," he told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I'm not happy just to sit around and pick up my money, I want to play football, hence the reason I moved on."

Having made himself a fans' favourite during his last spell with the club, Bridges admitted it was a pleasure to reacquaint himself with some familiar faces.

"It was great to walk back in and see Danny Livesey and Dennis Booth.

"I know Chris Lumsdon and Paul Thirlwell are back too, so I'm looking forward to seeing them," he said.

"A lot of people are saying going back to Carlisle they've seen me play and they'll be expecting success, but you've got to be big enough and strong enough to do that.

"I can't wait to get out there, get my boots on and hopefully score some goals."