Blackpool boss Steve Bruce to miss Barnsley clash after tragic death of four month old grandson

The former Newcastle United manager will not be in the dugout on Saturday.

Blackpool manager Steve Bruce will miss his side's clash with Barnsley on Saturday as he grieves the tragic loss of his four-year-old grandson.

In a statement released on Friday evening, the club confirmed that 63-year-old Bruce would not be in attendance for Saturday's mid-table league one clash at Bloomfield Road due to the family bereavement.

"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.

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"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."

Steve's son Alex - who has been capped at International level for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland - will not fulfil his duties as Salford City assistant manager on Saturday as he mourns the loss of his nephew.

Salford's statement 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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