Steve Bruce feels allowing his son Alex to join Ipswich is the best thing for his career.
Steve Bruce feels allowing his son Alex to join Ipswich Town is the best thing for the youngster's career.
The 21-year-old has signed a three-year contract at Portman Road after being granted a free transfer by his father's club Birmingham City.
The younger Bruce made 12 appearances during his time with Blues and undertook loan spells at Oldham Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday and Tranmere Rovers.
Blues boss Bruce admits the decision was taken in the best interests of his offspring's career and he is confident the versatile defender can make an impact with Ipswich.
"It was always a difficult situation," Bruce told Sky Sports News. "The one thing you do, above everything else, is for Alex himself to go and get a career for himself.
"The opportunity for Ipswich came along. If he hadn't been my lad, there wasn't any chance of him going anywhere.
"He is exactly what you want - he's young, enthusiastic, hungry and desperate to do well like any young player is.
"But I just felt, for his own career, it was best for him. I wish him all the best. He has got a tough start against Crystal Palace tomorrow and I hope he does well."
Bruce was born in Norwich, home of Ipswich's fierce rivals, while his exit has not pleased everyone in the family household.
The senior Bruce added: "He was born there, along the road at Norwich. I'd better not tell Ipswich fans that!
"Geographically, his mother's not very happy, but it's all about playing and getting a career for himself.
"It's a very, very good club Ipswich and I'm sure he'll do okay."
