Former Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce in line for shock football return

Steve Bruce is on the cusp of becoming the next South Korea manager, according to reports.

The former Newcastle United boss has been out of work since being sacked by West Bromwich Albion 18 months ago. His appointment at the Baggies in February 2022 came as a surprise, with the 63-year-old previously suggesting the Toon gig would be his last.

Now Bruce could be in line to take the reins at South Korea following their Asia Cup exit. The Taegeuk Warriors - who boast Tottenham Hotspur forward Heung-min Son as their star player - were pre-tournament favourites but lost in the semi-final to Jordan.

That 2-0 defeat ultimately cost Jurgen Klinsmann his job and The Sun claim Bruce is waiting in the wings to take charge. The ex-Newcastle man has flirted with the possibility of returning to the dugout in recent months.

Speaking in November, Bruce threw his name in the hat for the vacant Republic of Ireland job. He said: “I'm led to believe I'm there or thereabouts in the betting for the Ireland job. It's a job that would interest me, that's for sure.

“You know, as I've said, I've had a bit of time out and I'm itching to get back into the game. Something like that would suit me.”

Bruce has also kept the door open for opportunities from the Saudi Pro League as they continue to make inroads on the world stage. The report suggests he is eyeing a managerial return and views an overseas move as the perfect avenue to rebuild his career.