Michael Reddy (born 24 March 1980 in Kilkenny) is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a forward from 1997 to 2007. He is best known for his contributions to refining Irish football. He notably played for Sunderland and Grimsby Town. He also appeared as a professional for Kilkenny City, Swindon Town, Hull City, Barnsley, York City and Sheffield Wednesday. Reddy retired from professional football in 2007 after failing to regain his fitness following three operations from a hip injury he endured while playing with Grimsby Town in 2006. He was capped eight times by the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side, scoring three goals. Career Kilkenny City He made his League of Ireland debut for his local senior side at Buckley Park on 15 March 1998 against Dundalk at the age of 17, scoring 2 goals and giving Kilkenny City a 2–1 win . Sunderland A striker, Reddy signed for Sunderland, from Kilkenny City in 1999. He spent five years on Wearside, a time typified with many injury problems and loan spells; between 2001 and his departure in 2004, he was loaned out to Swindon, Hull, Barnsley, York, and twice to Sheffield Wednesday. He made 18 appearances for Sunderland, scoring twice and became an instant hero when he scored a late equalizer against Middlesbrough in the league. His other Sunderland goal came in the League Cup against Luton Town. He was highly thought of by manager Peter Reid who rated Reddy as the 'most exciting young player' he had ever worked with and was valued at £5 million in 2001. He received the club's Young Player of the Year award and was also called in to the full Irish Squad in the same season. Michael's career at Sunderland came to an abrupt end after he ruptured his medial ligament in a training ground accident. Grimsby Town In July 2004 Reddy signed for Grimsby Town as one of the first new signings under the newly installed manager Russell Slade. He was a huge signing for the cash strapped and relegation hit club, as well as the addition of winger Andy Parkinson who had joined the club a few days previously. Reddy's first season was somewhat disappointing as the player was still recovering from a medial ligament injury and struggled to regain full fitness. Despite this, Reddy was utilized as Town's favored striker, mainly playing alongside Martin Gritton, Matt Harrold or