Blackpool appoint Steve Bruce as new manager as former Newcastle and West Brom boss returns to the job after two years

Blackpool have announced the appointment of Steve Bruce as their new manager.

The 63-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the club, which will also see him joined by his regular assistant Steve Agnew.

The former Man United defender has been unemployed since being sacked by West Brom in October 2022.

He is one of the few coaches to have coached over 1,000 club games and has coached 11 British teams.

Steve Bruce said of his appointment: ‘I am delighted to be back in football and taking charge of this fantastic football club.

‘I would like to thank Simon, Julian and David for this fantastic opportunity. I look forward to meeting all the staff and players over the coming days as we prepare for what we all hope will be an exciting season at Bloomfield Road.’

Blackpool have announced the appointment of Steve Bruce as their new manager

Owner Simon Sadler said: “I am confident that Steve’s experience and leadership qualities will be a tremendous asset to Blackpool Football Club.

‘His organised approach, combined with his drive to build a hard-working and entertaining squad, was a large part of the reason we found him attractive.

“In addition, Steve’s ability to help grow and develop not only our playing group, 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 in the early stages of their coaching careers to learn from a duo of unrivalled quality. We hope this mix brings out the best in our talented squad.’

Richard Keogh and Stephen Dobbie will be the first team coaches, with Steve Banks completing this impressive squad as goalkeeping coach.