Former Leeds United, Hull City and Huddersfield Town defender announces retirement aged 36

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 28: Father and son Alex Bruce and Steve Bruce, manager of Hull City celebrate with the trophy after the Sky Bet Championship Play Off Final match between Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday at Wembley Stadium on May 28, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

A well-respected former Leeds United, Hull City and Huddersfield Town defender has announced his retirement on Twitter this afternoon.

Alex Bruce began his career as a youth player at Manchester United back in 1998 – a team which his dad, Red Devils legend Steve Bruce, played for and won trophies with.

Bruce then moved on to Blackburn Rovers before stints with Birmingham City, Ipswich Town, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town and Hull City.

A commanding centre back, Bruce, under his father’s management, gained promotion to the Premier League twice with the Tigers in 2013 and 2016.

The pair also took Hull City to the FA Cup final, losing 3-2 to Arsenal after extra time in 2014.

Bruce also helped Sheffield Wednesday reach the Championship through the League One play-offs back in 2005.

Speaking on Twiter, Bruce said: “Unfortunately, the day that every football dreads has come. The boots are being hung up and I’m retiring from playing as of today.

“On the whole, it’s been an unbelievable 20 years since I left school at 16 and I’ve had the privilege of playing for some great clubs.

“My time at Ipswich and Hull in particular hold very fond memories for me. I’m going to miss playing as it is, without doubt, the greatest job in the world.

“I’d like to thank my family, teammates and coaches for all the support over the years and I now look forward to starting a new chapter.”

Bruce retires having made 358 appearances in all competitions during career spanning 20 years.