Former Newcastle United & Man Utd man comes out of 'retirement' again to land new role

Bruce has been appointed as manager of League One side Blackpool on a two-year deal. It comes almost two years after he was sacked by Championship club West Bromwich Albion.

Blackpool will be the 13th stint of Bruce’s managerial career which has spanned over 1,000 games and seen him take charge of the likes of Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, Hull City, Sunderland, Aston Villa and, of course, Newcastle. Bruce left St James’ Park by mutual consent shortly after the PIF-led takeover of the club in October 2021.

Despite hinting he could retire, the former Manchester United defender returned to management months later with West Brom but lasted just eight months. That was thought to be the end of his managerial career but now Bruce is back and in charge at Bloomfield Road with the task of turning Blackpool’s fortunes around.

The Tangerines currently sit 22nd in the League One table.

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Bruce will be joined by former Newcastle assistant Steve Agnew with Richard Keogh and Stephen Dobbie as first-team coaches and Steve Banks completing the set-up as goalkeeping coach.

Following his appointment, Bruce said: “I’m delighted to be back in football and to take charge of this fantastic football club. I’d like to thank Simon, Julian and David for giving me this great opportunity.

“I look forward to meeting all of the staff and players in the coming days as we prepare for what we all hope will be an exciting season at Bloomfield Road.”

Owner Simon Sadler said: "I'm confident that Steve’s experience and leadership qualities will be a tremendous asset for Blackpool Football Club. His organised approach coupled with his desire to build a hardworking and entertaining side is a large part of what attracted us to him.

“Additionally, Steve’s ability to help grow and develop not only our playing staff but also our coaching talent was important to us. Alongside his assistant Steve Agnew, there is a great opportunity for two of our former players at the early stages of their coaching careers to learn from a duo who possess unrivalled qualities. We hope that this blend will get the very best out of our talented squad.”