Michael Chopra, 42, joins Trethomas Bluebirds in Cymru South | OneFootball

Michael Chopra has made a surprise return at 42, joining Cymru South side Trethomas Bluebirds. The former Sunderland, Newcastle United and Cardiff City striker had been out of competitive action for four years.

According to Sunderland Echo, the club have confirmed his arrival. Chopra last featured for West Allotment Celtic in 2022 and will continue his career in the second tier of Welsh football.

Trethomas finished 13th in Cymru South last season and are aiming to strengthen for the new campaign. The club have billed the move as a major signing, with the former Premier League and EFL forward adding pedigree to Paul Evans' squad.

Chopra came through at Newcastle United before several moves, but is perhaps best remembered for Cardiff City. Across four spells with the Bluebirds he scored 63 goals and became a popular figure in South Wales.

He first joined Cardiff from Newcastle in 2006, delivering 22 goals and 12 assists in a standout debut season. That form earned a £5 million switch to Sunderland in 2007, where he made 42 appearances and scored eight.

Later spells followed with Ipswich Town, Blackpool, Kerala Blasters and Alloa Athletic, among others. He now links up with a Trethomas side preparing for a third season at Cymru South level.

Source: Sunderland Echo