Steve Bruce to miss Blackpool vs Barnsley clash after tragic passing of four-month-old grandson

Today at 21:37

Steve Bruce will miss Blackpool’s clash with Barnsley following the tragic passing of his grandson.

Bruce was set to lead the Seasiders in the League One clash, but will no longer be in the dugout at Bloomfield Road.

A statement said: “The club can announce that Head Coach Steve Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture against Barnsley due to the tragic passing of his four-month old grandson, Madison.

“Everyone at the football club send their love to Steve and his family.

“We ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”

Bruce’s former club Birmingham City paid tribute on X, writing: “Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”

Bristol City, Norwich City, Millwall, Preston North End and Crewe Alexandra also paid tribute on X.

Bruce took charge of Blackpool in September this year after replacing Neil Critchley as boss.

Such was the impressive nature of his start to life with the club, he was awarded the League One Manager Of The Month award for September.

Blackpool currently sit 10th in League One with 15 points from 10 games.

At the age of 63, Bruce is one of the most experienced managers in English football

Bruce achieved legendary status with Manchester United as a player, before going on to enjoy time with Wigan, Birmingham, Sunderland, Hull City and Aston Villa during his pomp.

A short spell with Sheffield Wednesday ended when he took the job with Premier League side Newcastle United in the summer of 2019.

He spent just over two years with the Magpies during a turbulent time for the club as Mike Ashley’s much-maligned reign as the club’s owner led to significant fan unrest.

Unfortunately for Bruce, he was on the receiving end of much of that frustration, leading to him resigning in October 2021 following the takeover by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.

He was then replaced by Eddie Howe, who remains in charge of Newcastle.

Bruce’s latest role came with West Brom where he spent eight months before leaving with the Baggies 22nd in the Championship.