Former Leeds United defender that Neil Warnock once released retires after Kilmarnock stint

A well-respected former Leeds United, Huddersfield Town and Hull City defender has announced retirement on Twitter this afternoon.
LEEDS, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Alex Bruce of Leeds United challenges Andrey Arshavin of Arsenal during the FA Cup sponsored by E.On Third Round Replay match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 19, 2011 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)LEEDS, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Alex Bruce of Leeds United challenges Andrey Arshavin of Arsenal during the FA Cup sponsored by E.On Third Round Replay match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 19, 2011 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Alex Bruce of Leeds United challenges Andrey Arshavin of Arsenal during the FA Cup sponsored by E.On Third Round Replay match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 19, 2011 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Alex Bruce began his career as a youth player at Manchester United back in 1998 – a team which his dad, Red Devils legend Steve Bruce, played for and won trophies with.

Bruce enjoyed stints at Backburn Rovers, Birmingham City, Ipswich Town Huddersfield Town and Hull City.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Bruce joined Leeds United in 2010 for an undisclosed fee but released by manager Neil Warnock when his contract expired at the end of the 2011/12 season

A commanding centre back, Bruce, under his father’s management, gained promotion to the Premier League twice with the Tigers in 2013 and 2016.

The pair also took Hull to the FA Cup final, losing 3-2 to Arsenal after extra time in 2014.

Bruce also helped Sheffield Wednesday reach the Championship through the League One play-offs in 2005.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Speaking on Twiter, Bruce said: “Unfortunately, the day that every football dreads has come. The boots are being hung up and I’m retiring from playing as of today.

“On the whole, it’s been an unbelievable 20 years since I left school at 16 and I’ve had the privilege of playing for some great clubs.

“My time at Ipswich and Hull in particular hold very fond memories for me. I’m going to miss playing as it is, without doubt, the greatest job in the world.

“I’d like to thank my family, teammates and coaches for all the support over the years and I now look forward to starting a new chapter.”

Bruce retires having made 358 appearances and having turned out for Kilmarnock last season.