I realize it was broken, but was there a particular time? I mean was it something dramatic like during the 86 FA cup final or did he just do something boring like walking into a door?
Billy Whitehurst apperently when he was at Toon. It was discussed on Talksport interview with him.. he said he "didn't know"..
'Steve Bruce broke his nose on his debut for Manchester United, against Portsmouth at Fratton Park in December 1987, an injury which was swiftly followed by his first experience of Alex Ferguson's "hairdryer" when he was censured by the United manager for calling for defensive cover.' From the Guardian.
It has been broken many times during his playing days. Back in those days elbows were just part and parcel of the game. You gave what you got. He is not alone either with a nose issue.