SUNDERLAND and Newcastle United sent their support to former boss Steve Bruce after the tragic death of his baby grandson.

Bruce is currently in charge of Blackpool but will miss their game against Barnsley on Saturday afternoon after the passing of Madison, who was just four months old.

Millwall sent “unconditional love and support” and QPR their “deepest condolences, love and support” to their former striker Matt Smith, Madison’s father and Bruce’s son-in-law.

Alex Bruce, Steve’s son and Madison’s uncle, is assistant manager at Salford but will also be absent for Saturday’s League Two match at Crawley.

A Blackpool statement said: “The club can announce that head coach Steve Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture against Barnsley due to the tragic passing of his four-month-old grandson Madison.

“Everyone at the football club send their love to Steve and his family. We ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”

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Newcastle United wrote: "Incredibly heartbreaking news. Everyone at Newcastle United sends our love and deepest condolences to Steve and his family at such a tragic time."

Sunderland posted: "Incredibly sad news. Sending our thoughts and condolences to Steve and his family at this difficult time."

A statement from Salford said: “All at the football club send our love and full support to Alex, Matt Smith and the family.

“We request that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”

Former Manchester United defender Steve Bruce has won four, drawn one and lost one of his six League One games in charge of Blackpool since succeeding Neil Critchley last month. The Tangerines are currently 10th in the table.