Steve Bruce’s four-month-old grandson tragically dies as ex-Premier League manager’s current team Blackpool release emotional statement

The League One team confirmed the former Aston Villa and Newcastle United boss will not appear in the dugout for Saturday’s home game against Barnsley due to this family bereavement. Madison’s uncle, and Bruce’s son, Alex, is the current assistant manager at Salford City and will also be absent for their trip to Crewe Alexandra on Saturday – the League Two side have confirmed.

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  BLACKPOOL RELEASE STATEMENT

  The Blackpool statement reads: “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.”

  SALFORD SEND CONDOLENCES

  In addition to Blackpool’s touching message to Bruce, Salford said they are also sending their “love and support” to his son Alex during this difficult time, and called to respect the family’s privacy.

  Salford’s post on X, formerly Twitter, reads: “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. We request that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family ❤️.”

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Bruce, who took over as Blackpool boss in September and has won four of his seven games in charge, will likely take some time away from the game to mourn the tragic loss of his grandson. Former Derby County centre-back Richard Keogh and Bruce’s assistant Steve Agnew are set to take charge of the first-team in his absence.