Steve Bruce: Hull stint 'among happiest times of managerial career'

Steve Bruce thanked Hull City fans for their "unwavering support" in an open letter published Monday following his resignation as manager Friday.

Amid his public declarations of interest in the England job - a role that was eventually handed to Sam Allardyce - and insecurity over his day-to-day employment during negotiations over a change of ownership at the Tigers, Bruce felt stepping down was best "for the sake of the club."

The 55-year-old penned the note for the Hull Daily Mail.

"It was with a heavy heart that I ended my time as Hull City manager on Friday," Bruce's letter began. "The four years I spent at the club were among the happiest times of my managerial career."

The former Manchester United defender steered Hull to promotion from the Championship, an FA Cup final and European football, but also showed great resolve last season in securing a second, instant return to the Premier League following relegation.

"If someone had told me the success we've had when I was appointed, I would have told them to give their head a bang. It wouldn't have seemed possible. As a group, we should all be proud of what we achieved," he continued.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the last four years and you have played a big part in that. It is rare for a manager to have the backing I've had from fans. It's been unwavering.

"I was made welcome from the minute I walked in through the door and even during the times we struggled, I felt the majority of supporters understood how difficult it was for a club the size of Hull City to reach, and then stay in, the Premier League."

The club recently vowed to put takeover negotiations on hold to "ensure stability during the transfer window." Despite guiding Hull back to the top flight, Bruce's future had become untenable as incumbent owner Assem Allam sought a buyer.

Now, with Bruce stepping down and a crowded treatment room ahead of the big kickoff against reigning champion Leicester City on Aug. 13, it would appear the Hull hierarchy has led the outfit into a situation far short of stability.

"My biggest regret is having to walk away but it was a decision I had to make for the sake of the club," Bruce added. "The last 12 months have been very tough and it felt like the right step for the club to move forward in a different direction and with someone else in charge.

"I desperately wanted to make it work this summer and be a Premier League manager again but, sadly, it wasn't to be. Nevertheless, I've left Hull City with some fantastic memories that I'll always cherish, including just eight weeks ago in the Championship play-off final at Wembley."

Bruce continues what has been a nomadic career as manager. He has now overseen Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic, Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Wigan (again), Sunderland, and Hull. The latter was his second-longest stint at the helm of a club.