Due to sudden death of his four-month old grandson Madison, the former English footballer and current manager of Blackpool, Steve Bruce, was not present for club’s Football League 1 fixture against Barnsley on Saturday, October 19. Notably, Bruce was appointed as a Blackpool manager in September 2024. The club announced Bruce’s absence from the fixture, and sent their wishes to his family in these difficult times.
Steve Bruce’s son and former Millwall striker Matt Smith also received multiple consoling message from the football fraternity after sudden and tragic death of his son. Millwall FC sent its unconditional love and support to Matt Smith, and his family and friends, following the passing of his four-month old son, Madison. “We are with you every step of the way, Smudger,” a statement from Millwall football read.
Blackpool FC to face Barnsley in Football League 1
Blackpool FC are set to face Barnsley FC in the upcoming fixture of the Football League 1 at the Bloomfield Road. Both the teams have won four matches and lost three matches each from 10 matches in the season played so far. However, Blackpool are 12th in the points table, while Barnsley are in 13th position.
Steve Bruce was appointed as manager of Blackpool on September 3, replacing Neil Critchley. After the passing of Bruce’s grandson, Blackpool released an statement which said, “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.”
