Despite Ipswich boss Roy Keane – another Old Trafford legend – wanting to keep him at Portman Road, Bruce felt the challenge of being involved in a promotion race was too good to turn down. “The fact City are after promotion was a big temptation to come here because Ipswich aren’t doing that well at the minute, although I am sure they will turn it around,” he said. “Now I have the chance to play in a promotion push and every player would want to be involved in that. “City’s interest came a bit out of the blue. I spoke to Roy Keane and he gave me the option, and I just felt the time was right for a change.” Bruce was born in Norwich but, through his Irish grandmother, was eligible for international football for both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as England. He was called up by Northern Ireland Under-21s, but opted to play for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s and made his debut in February 2006. He has since gone on to earn two full international caps.