The highly experienced boss joins the Seasiders on a two-year deal alongside his long-term assistant Steve Agnew as Assistant Head Coach. Richard Keogh and Stephen Dobbie will be First-Team Coaches, with Steve Banks completing this impressive setup as Goalkeeping Coach.

Bruce brings a wealth of footballing know-how to Bloomfield Road, having managed numerous Clubs in the top two divisions of English football, achieving four promotions from The Championship to The Premier League. One of a handful of coaches who has reached the milestone of 1,000 games in Club management, the 63-year-old will take charge of training for the first time later this week.

On his appointment, Steve Bruce said:

“I’m delighted to be back in football and to take charge of this fantastic football club.

“I’d like to thank Simon, Julian and David for giving me this great opportunity. I look forward to meeting all of the staff and players in the coming days as we prepare for what we all hope will be an exciting season at Bloomfield Road.”

Owner Simon Sadler said:

“I’m confident that Steve’s experience and leadership qualities will be a tremendous asset for Blackpool Football Club. His organised approach coupled with his desire to build a hardworking and entertaining side is a large part of what attracted us to him.

“Additionally, Steve’s ability to help grow and develop not only our playing staff 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 at the early stages of their coaching careers to learn from a duo who possess unrivalled qualities. We hope that this blend will get the very best out of our talented squad.”