STEVE Bruce will not begin his new role at Championship club Sheffield Wednesday until February 1. 

The Corbridge-born manager was appointed by the Hillsborough club last week, following the departure of Dutchman Jos Luhukay over the Christmas period. 

The 58-year-old, who has been out of work since leaving Aston Villa in October, is unable to start his new job immediately, because he requires an operation on his knee. 

Bruce, who will be assisted by his long-term coaching colleagues Steve Agnew and Stephen Clemence, will become only the second manager to take charge of both Sheffield clubs, after Danny Wilson. 

Agnew and Clemence were in the dug-out at the weekend, as Wednesday drew 0-0 with Luton Town in the third round of the FA Cup.

They will remain in charge until Bruce returns from his operation. 

Following a distinguished career as a player with Manchester United, the defender moved into management with Wednesday’s city rivals Sheffield United, in 1998. 

He went on to win promotion from the Championship to the Premier League no fewer than four times, twice with Birmingham City, and twice with Hull City. 

Bruce has managed in the Premier League with various clubs, including Wigan, and Sunderland.