Rudy Gestede

Rudy Philippe Michel Camille Gestede (born 10 October 1988) is a Beninese professional footballer who plays as a striker for Greek club Panetolikos.

After coming through the youth ranks at Metz, Gestede spent a year on loan gaining experience with Cannes, scoring four goals in 22 appearances, before returning to Metz in 2010. In the summer of 2011, he joined Cardiff City, helping the club to secure promotion to the Premier League. However, he found first team chances limited with Cardiff at the start of 2013–14, prompting a loan move to Blackburn Rovers in 2013. In January 2014, he made a permanent transfer to Blackburn and established himself in the first team, forming a prolific partnership with Jordan Rhodes in attack.

Gestede played internationally for France at under-19 level before switching international allegiance to Benin.

Club Career

Metz

Born in Essey-les-Nancy, Gestede started at youth level at the age of 16, in 2004, where he played for Metz. A year later, he signed a professional contract with Metz's B Team. In 2007, he was promoted to play for the first team, whilst still also continuing to play for the B team, but in 2010, he ended his five years playing for the B team when he was sent on loan to Cannes.

Cardiff City

Gestede joined Football League Championship side Cardiff City on a week-long trial during City's training camp in Seville, Spain. He scored his first goal for the Bluebirds in the 25th minute against Charlton Athletic On 23 July 2011, Gestede passed his medical and was unveiled as a Cardiff City player three days later. On 7 August 2011, he came on for his debut against West Ham United, in the 68th minute in place of Robert Earnshaw, setting up Kenny Miller for the match's only goal. Gestede's first start came the following game against Oxford United in the League Cup. He made his 50th appearance in a 5–3 victory over Huddersfield Town, putting in a man of the match performance. Gestede scored his first

This page also has a version in other languages :  Руди Жестед (russian)