Steve Bruce to miss Blackpool match after four-month-old grandson dies

The football world has come together to offer their condolences

The Blackpool manager was due to lead his team from the Bloomfield Road dugout on Saturday in the League One clash but will be absent as he takes time to grieve alongside the rest of his family.

A statement issued by the club 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.”

Alex Bruce, assistant manager of Salford City will also be absent for his side’s trip to Crewe as he takes time to mourn his nephew.

Salford’s former striker Matt Smith is married to Steve Bruce’s daughter Amy.

The club offered their condolences and support to him and Bruce.

A statement read: “Salford City announces that Assistant Manager Alex Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture away at Crewe Alexandra due to the tragic passing of his four-month old nephew, Madison.

“All at the football club send our love and full support to Alex, Matt Smith and the family.”

Several of Steve Bruce’s former clubs offered their condolences to their former manager including Birmingham and Newcastle.

Birmingham City said on X: “Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”

Newcastle wrote: “Incredibly heartbreaking news. Everyone at Newcastle United sends our love and deepest condolences to Steve and his family at such a tragic time.”

A statement from the EFL read: “Everyone at the EFL sends their love and support to Steve and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”

Bristol City, Norwich City, Leeds, Millwall, Preston North End, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom and Crewe Alexandra were among many clubs to also send their condolences to Bruce and his family.

The 63-year-old took charge of Blackpool in September this year after replacing Neil Critchley.