Blackpool manager Steve Bruce will miss Saturday’s match fixture against Barnsley after the tragic death of his four-month grandson Madison.
Steve Bruce was recently appointed as the head coach at Bloomfield Road for 2 years. The former defender won four of six league-one games since succeeding Neil Critchley last month. He helps Tangerines to stand 10th in the table.
The club asks for his and his family’s privacy after the unexpected loss of the little one.
The lead club confirmed on Friday that the former Birmingham City, New Castle, and Aston Villa United manager will not be able to attend this weekend due to the unexpected death of his grandson.
A statement on Blackpool FC’s website said: “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 sends their love to Steve and his family.”
“We ask that their privacy be respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”
Madison was the child of Bruce’s daughter and son-in-law, the former Fulham, QPR, and Millwall striker Matt Smith. All three London clubs send him their condolences and support for the unexpected loss.
Millwall shared a statement on X, “Millwall Football Club sends its unconditional love and support to Matt Smith and his family and friends, following the passing of his four-month-old son, Madison.
Alex Bruce, assistant manager at Salford City, Steve Bruce’s son, and Madison’s uncle also miss his side’s match on Saturday.
Salford said: ‘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 dour 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 be respected as they come to terms with his sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”
