Best quotes about Steve Bruce

Currently the manager of English football team West Bromwich Albion, Bruce was a talisman in the Manchester United defence during the late ‘80s and early ‘90s when the club won a host of titles. We take a look at some of the best quotes about Steve Bruce from the people around him.

Starting his career with Gillingham and then Norwich City, Bruce’s main success came with Manchester United FC with whom he won 12 trophies.

In a defensive line-up which also contained Gary Pallister, the pair were labelled ‘Dolly and Daisy’ by the United manager Alex Ferguson, with Bruce being the more aggressive of the two. He was also noted for his goal scoring with 36 in over 300 league games for the club, mainly from penalties and headers.

Bruce was actually in a position to turn his back on football after being refused by several clubs, but after switching from midfield to a more central defensive role, he was on the way to success, justified by three Premier League, one Cup Winners’ Cup, and three FA Cup titles.

After retiring from the field of play, Bruce became something of a high profile manager, coaching at clubs such as Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Sunderland, and Crystal Palace. He twice helped Birmingham City and Hull City into the Premier League, and also reached the FA Cup final with the latter.

One stat which was missed of his CV was an England international appearance which surprised many people. In fact a former England manager even mentioned to Bruce that he should have been picked to play for the team!   

“…..I know the type of guy he is, he’s a very honest person and he has great values.”     Gary Pallister

“I should have capped you.”     Bobby Robson  (former England manager talking to Bruce)

“Steve is a fighter and he proved that as a player and a manager.”     Kevin Doyle

“…..determination and heart.”     Alex Ferguson

“…..Steve has been outstanding. He was determined to bounce back.”     David Gold  (Birmingham City chairman)

“He embodies the ethos of teamwork and the importance of camaraderie.”     Niall Quinn

“Steve has acted with honesty and integrity throughout, which is testament to the character and commitment…..”     Ellis Short  (Sunderland chairman)

“He’s got tough skin.”     Gary Pallister

“Steve is a highly-respected and experienced manager…..His excellent man-management skills, tactical nous…..”     Ron Gourlay

“…..a magnificent attitude…..if I’m right, he could go all the way.”     Buster Collins  (Gillingham youth team coach)

“He’s proved as a player he’s a winner…..”     Simon Jordan

“He’s the ideal man to pull the club together…..”     Barry Fry  (on Bruce at Birmingham City)

“Steve did a great job for us. We got two promotions…..his skill worked well.”     David Gold

“Brucey was the captain of the club, he lifted trophies, played with his heart on his sleeve, gave everything he had for United.”     Gary Pallister

“When he was playing for me at Manchester United, I observed that he always had a fantastic ability to communicate and motivate.”     Alex Ferguson

“Nothing frightened Brucie…..Nothing was impossible. He had more determination than anyone.”     Paul Parker