Former Manchester United Defender Charged by FA After League Two Flash-Point

Alex Bruce, a former Manchester United academy product and current Salford City assistant manager, has been charged by the Football Association for alleged misconduct during the club’s recent 3-2 defeat to Cheltenham Town.

The governing body alleges that Bruce “acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards a match official” in the closing stages of a dramatic encounter that featured a late sending-off, a contentious penalty award and a stoppage-time winner for the visitors.

Bruce, 43, never made a senior appearance for United after being released at 16, but went on to compile more than 350 professional appearances for Hull City, Ipswich Town and Huddersfield Town. He retired in 2022 and moved into coaching, joining Salford’s backroom staff last year.

The charge adds an unwelcome spotlight to a club synonymous with United’s Class of ’92, who remain co-owners alongside David Beckham. Salford have regularly signed ex-United players and partnered with former club sponsors, ensuring any Old Trafford link attracts heightened scrutiny.

Bruce is the son of Steve Bruce, the former United captain who won seven major trophies at Old Trafford and has previously spoken about being considered for the managerial role at the club.

Both Alex Bruce and a Salford player also cited by the FA have until 2 March to respond to the charges.

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