Soccer

Bruce backs son's push for Irish role

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce has backed his son Alex’s decision to pursue an international career with the Republic of Ireland…

Wed Feb 22 2006 - 00:00

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce has backed his son Alex’s decision to pursue an international career with the Republic of Ireland.

Bruce junior has been included for the first time in an 18-strong under-21 squad for a friendly with Sweden in Drogheda next Tuesday.

After spurning the overtures of Northern Ireland on three previous occasions, the 21-year-old centre-back has opted for the Republic.

"He was fortunate that both respective countries wanted him, and he has decided to choose the Republic," said Bruce senior.

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"I think the opportunity to gain international recognition appeals to Alex and I am happy to support him in that.

"With his grandparents being Irish he thought, why not? But it’s genuine both sides of our family are Irish."

Under-21 manager Don Givens only learned of Bruce’s lineage earlier this year when he was sat alongside the City boss at a reserve game.

"Steve informed me his mother was Irish, which I was unaware of," said Givens.

"All of a sudden I started looking at the boy a bit differently, and I have kept an eye on him since."

After loan spells with Oldham, Sheffield Wednesday and Tranmere in his two and a half years at City, Bruce is finally breaking through with the Blues, with seven appearances since the turn of the year.

"I can imagine it’s difficult trying to follow your dad, especially being at the same club," added Givens.

"But he is a good player, and he is versatile as he is comfortable playing at right- back or centre-half, which is an advantage.

"He is still developing, and let’s hope he can be good for us. I’m certainly delighted he has joined us.

"As to why us over Northern Ireland, I’m guessing he looked at the situation and felt our prospects are better."

Playing for the Republic is an opportunity Bruce senior missed out on 12 years ago at a time when Jack Charlton was in charge due to UEFA rules.

"With my mother being Irish it was a close call," said Bruce. "I nearly went, but I decided against it as we were going to be hindered as a club at Manchester United with the five foreigners rule."

PA