STEVE BRUCE’s fourth-month old grandson Madison has tragically passed away.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the manager’s club, Blackpool, on social media.
The club announced that Bruce will miss the clash against Barnsley following Madison’s passing.
A statement read: “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.”
Bruce’s son Alex, who is currently working as the assistant manager at Salford City, will also miss his game against Crewe.
Salford released their own statement sending support to the family.
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.
What tributes clubs have made
Clubs up and down the country have sent their condolences…
Preston North End
“Devastating news. Sending our thoughts and condolences to Steve and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”
West Bromwich Albion
“Everybody at West Bromwich Albion sends their condolences, thoughts and love to Steve Bruce’s family at this desperately sad time.”
Norwich City
“Heartbreaking news. We’re sending our love and support to Steve and his family at this difficult time”
Birmingham City
“Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
Bristol City
“Everybody at Bristol City sends their condolences, thoughts and love to the family at this tragic time.”
Lincoln City
“Deepest condolences from everyone at the Imps to Steve and his family.”
Northampton Town
“Sending the condolences of everyone at Sixfields to Steve and his family.”
Leeds United
“Everybody at Leeds United sends their condolences and thoughts to Steve’s family at this tragic time.”
Bristol Rovers
“Everyone at Bristol Rovers sends our condolences, thoughts and love to Steve and the Bruce family.”
Barnsley
“Incredibly sad news. The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to Barnsley Football Club are with Steve and his family.”
“We request that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”
Tributes have flooded in for Madison, with the footballing world in mourning.
One person posted: “Horrible. We’re all with you Steve.”
A second wrote: “Jesus, prayers with Steve Bruce and his family.”
A third commented: “Thoughts are with Brucey and his family.”
A fourth said: “Many many heartfelt condolences Steve our thoughts are with you and the family.”
Another added: “Absolutely tragic, thoughts with everyone in the family.”
Bruce was named Blackpool manager in September but has had a long career in management.
He has taken charge of the likes of West Brom, Newcastle United, Sheffield Wednesday, Aston Villa, Hull City, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, Birmingham City, Crystal Palace, Huddersfield Town and Sheffield United.
As a player, he made 309 league appearances for Manchester United and won the Premier League three times between 1993 and 1996.
