Michael James Black (born October 6, 1976) is a former professional football midfielder and striker from England. He began his career in the Arsenal youth system and went on to play in the Football League for Tranmere Rovers and Southend United before descending to non-league football in 2002. After retiring as a player he became a coach. Black was born in London but grew up in Romford, Essex. His father died when he was young and his mother struggled to make ends meet as a single parent. Despite this, he says that they always had something to eat and he felt loved and secure growing up. He admits that he was also influenced by hip hop music which was popular at the time. He started off playing football in the street with his friends and then progressed to Romford FC. It wasn't long before he caught the eye of scouts from Arsenal who invited him to train with them. Although he didn't get into their youth team, he continued to hone his skills and within a few years he was playing in the First Division. In 1998, he made his debut for Arsenal against Wimbledon and went on to score two goals in 22 appearances during his one season with the club. The following year, he moved to Tranmere Rovers where he spent three seasons before moving back to Highbury to join newly promoted First Division side Southend United.