Steve Bruce opens up on tragic passing of his four-month old grandson

Steve Bruce has released a moving statement after the tragic passing of his grandson, Madison, earlier in October. 

Earlier this month both Bruce and his son Alex, the uncle of Madison, took a step back from their duties temporarily, in the wake of the death of the four-month old to be with their family. 

Bruce was not in the dugout for his side, Blackpool, nor was Alex at Salford City, where he is currently a first-team coach. 

Earlier on Thursday, though, the former Manchester United defender put out a statement thanking the club and the wider football community for their words of kindness in a time of understandable emotional strain. 

He also confirmed that he will return to action at the weekend for the Tangerines' clash with Gillingham at Bloomfield Road. 

'On Tuesday we laid my grandson Madison to rest. It's been the worst time of my family's entire lives, and is something no family should have to endure,' Bruce began, Blackpool releasing the statement on X on his behalf. 

'I'd like to take this opportunity on behalf of all the family to thank everyone for the tributes and messages from inside and outside the footballing world.

'It has touched us all. I'd also like to thank David, Julian and the owner Simon for their understanding and support.

'I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday at Gillingham, and back at Bloomfield Road.

'Look after your loved ones. Best wishes, Steve Bruce.'

In his absence Blackpool failed to win any of their three games, losing 2-1 to Barnsley, 5-1 to Duncan Ferguson's Peterborough and drew 2-2 with Wigan. 

His side now enter the FA Cup first round and will take on League Two Gillingham for a spot in the next round.