Steve Bruce is back in football management as Blackpool announced his surprise appointment last night.
The 63-year-old has been out of work since he was sacked by West Brom two years ago and previously hinted at retirement after his departure from Newcastle in 2021, but he’s giving it another go and preparing for life in League On three years later.
Blackpool narrowly missed out on the play-offs last season after finishing 8th, but former boss Neil Critchley was sacked just two games into the 2024/25 campaign after back-to-back defeats.
Speaking after landing the job at Blackpool, 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.”
🗣️ "I've come here to try and take the Club and it's supporters where they want to get back to. Hopefully, we can give them something to shout about."
The first words from our new Head Coach, Steve Bruce.
🍊 #UTMP pic.twitter.com/Q1cxt4AhWg
— Blackpool FC (@BlackpoolFC) September 3, 2024
Owner Simon Sadler then had this to say on Bruce’s appointment: “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.”