Career
Born in Dundee, Scotland, Bruce began his career with Preston North End in 1971. He became a cult figure with the Preston supporters and was a prolific striker, finishing as the highest goal scorer, a club record, eight seasons out of ten during the 1970s and early 1980s. He remains to date the club"s second highest all time goal scorer, only bettered by club stalwart Sir Tom Finney.
In January 1974 he joined Newcastle United for a fee reported as £140,000 or £150,000.
He made his debut in February 1974 in a 3–1 defeat against Southampton and scored on his home debut at Street James" Park but struggled to hold a regular first team place ahead of the club"s more established strikers. He made 20 league appearances and scored three goals during his 18-month spell at the club
In August 1975, he re-joined his former club when Newcastle signed John Bird from Preston in exchange for Bruce and £60,000 – a transfer which prompted the resignation of Preston manager Bobby Charlton. He stayed at Preston until 1983 when he joined local side Wigan Athletic as a player and coach before retiring from football due to a knee injury in 1985.
Following football, Alex forged a successful career in leisure management and finished his career as Head of Leisure at South Ribble Borough Council.
