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Bruce leaves Wigan for Sunderland

Members

Former Manchester United FC defender Steve Bruce has been named as the new coach of Sunderland AFC, leaving the post at Premier League rivals Wigan Athletic FC vacant to return to his native north-east.

Steve Bruce has joined Sunderland after leaving Wigan for a second time
Steve Bruce has joined Sunderland after leaving Wigan for a second time ©Getty Images

Former Manchester United FC defender Steve Bruce has been named as the new coach of Sunderland AFC, leaving the post at Premier League rivals Wigan Athletic FC vacant.

Local pride
The 48-year-old, who hails from nearby Corbridge, has signed a three-year contract with the side that finished 16th in the 20-team English top division, having previously coached Sheffield United FC, Huddersfield Town FC, Crystal Palace FC and Birmingham City FC. Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn said: "Steve knows more than anyone what football means to people of this region, and I'm confident that he will be able to instil into our players exactly what it means to play for this football club." Bruce has previously admitted to having been a boyhood supporter of Sunderland's north-east rivals Newcastle United FC.