Bruce set to step out of father’s shadow

ALEX BRUCE believes he is finally stepping out of the shadow of his famous father as he prepares to tread the international boards.

Bruce will tonight make his debut for the Republic of Ireland U-21 side, with the Birmingham centre-back due to start against Sweden at United Park in Drogheda.

In accepting the call from the Republic, after spurning overtures from Northern Ireland on three separate occasions, Bruce will tie the green of Ireland firmly to his mast.

Such an honour is recognition for the form he is showing for the Blues after a rough ride early on, due to the 21-year-old being son of Birmingham boss Steve, a defensive legend at Manchester United.

After loan spells with Oldham, Sheffield Wednesday and Tranmere in his two-and-a-half years with

Birmingham, Bruce is finally breaking through at St Andrews, with seven appearances since the turn of the year.

“I had to come through quite a tricky period,” recalled Bruce.

“I was nervous because I wanted to do well, and I think everyone knows if you pick your son in the team then he is there to be shot at.

“I would like to think I have done okay in the matches in which I have played. Hopefully that will continue.

“Now I have found my feet it’s important I put a few performances together and help get Birmingham out of the relegation battle we are in, but I also want to put it together for Ireland.

“It’s important I play well for them and try to make strides to get into the senior team, just like every other U-21 international strives to do.”

It is generally accepted that Steve Bruce was one of the best players never to play for England. The Republic did enquire at a time when Jack Charlton was in charge, as Bruce’s mother is Irish. However, Bruce did not want to hamper United with respect to UEFA’s ‘five-foreigner’ rule.

Alex is close to putting one over on his dad, adding: “He thought it was a good decision that I play for Ireland.

“Obviously he achieved a lot at club level, but not at international level, but when I got the call he was proud, as any father would be.

“But it certainly came out of the blue. Every footballer strives to play international football, and now I am here I intend to make the most of it.

“I’m 21, which is still young obviously, but I just wanted to commit myself to a country. I’ve done that and I’m going to give it 100%.”

Don Givens’ side will be looking to build on the foundations put in place this month when they won the Madeira Tournament, ending a long winless streak with victories over Finland and Portugal.