Bruce says he was not shocked by Keane’s Sunderland exit on Thursday.
He said: “I can’t say I’m surprised because of all the speculation.
“But I spoke to Roy two to three weeks ago and I know he was enjoying the challenge of management.
“Football is a better place with Roy Keane involved. What you get is integrity and honesty.
“When my players come into the canteen at the training ground and see Roy on the TV, they reach for the remote so they can find out what he’s saying.
“I wonder how long Roy can do without football.
“I think his love for the game will draw him back — I hope it does.”
