Steve Bruce releases statement after four-month-old grandson dies

Steve Bruce is poised to make an emotional return to the dugout this weekend for the first time since the devastating loss of his four-month-old grandson, Madison. Appointed as Blackpool's new manager last month, Bruce took a step back from football to grieve after the tragic event.

Madison was the son of Amy, Bruce's daughter, and her husband Matt Smith, who is known for his time at Millwall, QPR, and Salford.

Ex-Manchester United defender Bruce has been absent for Blackpool's fixtures against Barnsley, Peterborough, and Wigan, but will be back on the touchline for their FA Cup encounter with Gillingham on Saturday. In a poignant statement released by Blackpool, Bruce expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and emphasised the importance of cherishing loved ones, reports the Mirror.

He shared: "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. 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."

The sudden and unexpected passing of Madison was announced earlier this month, with Blackpool stating: "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."

In the wake of Madison's passing, Bruce's son, Alex Bruce, assistant manager at Salford, has also stepped back from his duties.