He then spent two seasons playing professionally for Marconi Stallions (2002–2004) in the now defunct NSL, before heading to Romania.

[3][4] On 1 February 2012 he scored his first goal in his professional career for Gold Coast United against his former club Melbourne Victory at Aurora Stadium in Tasmania.

[5] During Michael's first season in the 2016 Chinese Super League Thwaite made 25 appearances scoring 3 goals.

On 8 June 2019 Thwaite played his 100th competitive game for Gold Coast United scoring in the 52nd minute against South West Queensland.

In between times, across those 18 years, some blood, plenty of sweat and a few tears shed in an impressive playing career that criss-crossed the globe and country.

He made his international debut on 9 October 2005 in a 5–0 win in a friendly match held in London against Jamaica.

Michael was selected for the Socceroos at the 2007 Asian Cup reaching the Quarter Final against Japan in Hanoi, Vietnam.